Small World

The world of banking is tiny, although it will seem large at first. No matter what field you are in, there are really only maybe a hundred people around the world who specialize in the same area. Are you a healthcare i-banker? You'll probably see the same 20 people at pitches and conferences over the next few years, over and over and over again. Are you a consumer discretionary analyst? You'll be on calls and conferences with the same 30 people every month. You trade the long bond? You'll know all 20 bond dealers intimately over the phone and on the screens.

I'm usually the last one to care about politics and relations, but for those who are like me, don't piss these people off! You need to keep good relations with the street. Especially if you plan to make a career out of this. It's like rival teams in a sport. You play hard when you're against each other, but you hang out together afterwards. When it comes down to it, when you're looking for that next job, it's usually one of those competitors that will pull you into their firm.

Another thing to think about is how lucky you are to have that position and that there are hundreds of people lined up outside the gates ready to take that position from you. Don't give them a reason to take it! You have a coveted seat as one of about 20 people who do your job (hopefully well). Count your lucky stars and don't give any reason to be replaced. As soon as you get complacent and take your place for granted, that next guy will eat you alive.