The 4! Is Networking Overrated? The Banking Edition - The Introverted Analyst Who Outperformed All the Schmoozers.
Oliver Traxel
Senior Strategic Recruiter Global Wealth Management Europe / Executive Director - Strategic Recruiter I Talent Acquisition Specialist I Executive Search I Recruitment Strategy
Ah, networking, the buzzword that's been circulating in banking corridors like a hot IPO. But is it really the golden ticket to success? It's a question that many banking professionals have asked themselves, especially introverts or those who simply don't enjoy schmoozing. Let's delve into the four aspects that challenge the conventional wisdom on networking in the banking sector (or in any sector). I've sat across the table from both the schmoozers and the introverts during countless interviews, and here's my conclusion.
One: The Myth of the "People Person".
Ah, the "people person," the life of the party, the one who could sell ice to Eskimos. But let's get real—being the human equivalent of a golden retriever doesn't make you the next financial guru. I once interviewed a guy so introverted, he made a library seem like a rave. But guess what? His spreadsheets spoke louder than any extrovert's elevator pitch.
Two: Quality Over Quantity.
You've heard it before: "It's not what you know, but who you know." Well, in banking, it's not just who you know, but what you can actually do besides name-dropping Elon Musk. Sure, networking can get you in the door, but it's your skills that will keep you from being shown the exit. So, instead of collecting LinkedIn connections like Pokémon cards, focus on leveling up your actual skills. So, instead of focusing on expanding your network as much as possible, focus on building relationships with people who can help you achieve your career goals. After all, a Rolodex (if reeeally you still use one....) full of names means nothing if you can't deliver.
Three: The Illusion of Immediate Success.
Ah, networking events, where everyone pretends to be interested in each other's jobs while secretly scanning the room for the snack table. Let's face it, you're not going to find your Warren Buffet over a lukewarm glass of Chardonnay. The real pros build their networks like they build IKEA furniture: slowly, painfully, but eventually, it holds up. meaningful relationships aren't built over a glass of Merlot. In my experience, the most successful people have built their networks slowly but surely, focusing on genuine connections rather than superficial ones. So, the next time you're at a networking event, remember that Rome wasn't built in a day, and neither is a solid professional network.
领英推荐
Four: The Introvert's Edge.
Introverts, often overlooked in the networking game, bring a unique set of skills. They're usually better listeners, more analytical, and let's face it, less likely to spill company secrets at a cocktail party. So, the next time you overlook an introvert, remember that they might just be the secret weapon your team needs. After all, a quiet mind is a focused mind.
What You Can Take Away.
Networking isn't a one-size-fits-all strategy, especially in a nuanced field like banking. While schmoozing might get you some short-term gains, it's the long-term relationships built on skill and trust that truly matter. So, whether you're an introvert, an extrovert, or somewhere in between, focus on what you bring to the table, not just who's sitting at it. The next time you find yourself at a networking event, sipping on a glass of expensive wine and listening to the same elevator pitch for the umpteenth time, ask yourself: Is this really where the magic happens? Cheers to challenging the status quo! ??
Hashtags