by meridith dennes | Apr 11, 2026 | Interviewing, Lateral Recruiting
This guide covers the full landscape of investment banking offer negotiation — when to engage, what can actually move, how to read your leverage, and what the realistic risks look like. The Single Most Important Principle Negotiation is not automatic or universal.... 
by meridith dennes | Apr 9, 2026 | Interviewing, Lateral Recruiting
Every banker, at some point in their career, will need to exit a process or decline an offer. It is one of the most routine yet most poorly handled moments in professional life. Done well, it preserves a relationship that may matter significantly later in your career.... 
by meridith dennes | Mar 21, 2026 | Interviewing, Lateral Recruiting
Let's be clear about something upfront: VPs are among the most desirable lateral hires in investment banking. VP1s and VP2s move constantly and with relative ease. They're senior enough to hit the ground running, junior enough to develop, and priced at a level where... 
by meridith dennes | Feb 28, 2026 | Interviewing, Lateral Recruiting
Part 2 of “Calling Your Bluff” Series In our last post, we talked about the art of the humble flex—those subtle signals that separate actual top performers from people who just claim to be in the “top bucket.” But here’s the thing: even... 
by meridith dennes | Feb 26, 2026 | Interviewing, Lateral Recruiting
The Exit Everyone Overlooks: Why Your Next Move Might Be Another Bank You’re 18 months into your post-MBA banking role and something feels off. You’re not exactly sure what it is, but you know you’re not happy. You started thinking about PE because... 
by meridith dennes | Feb 25, 2026 | Exit Opportunities, Interviewing, Lateral Recruiting
The narrative is seductive: escape the brutal banking hours, maintain strong compensation, gain strategic influence, and build a sustainable career. Corporate development has emerged as the hot exit for post-MBA investment banking associates and VPs, positioned as...