Investment Bankers

Aspiring investment bankers must have at least three years of experience as an investment banking associate, or other applicable experience (e.g., private equity, corporate development, etc.).

According to its Web site, investment banking giant Credit Suisse seeks the following qualities in its investment bankers:

• leaders who engender loyalty, assume responsibility, and mobilize others
• critical thinkers with excellent problem-solving skills
• self-starters who achieve significant results
• adaptable team members who can build and support strong relationships
• communicators who are skilled in articulating and listening
• principled contributors who are committed to the highest standards of ethical behavior

Other important traits include curiosity, ambition, adaptability, the capacity to work long hours, patience, a positive and encouraging attitude, attentiveness to detail, skill in the use of Microsoft Excel and PowerPoint, and a deep understanding of financial accounting valuation methodologies.