The Future of Finance: Why In-Person Work Matters in Investment Banking

As remote work becomes increasingly common across industries, CFA® charterholder and MBA candidate Levi Pettit advocates for a more traditional approach in finance, particularly for early-career professionals. Drawing from his experience in private equity and investment management, Pettit offers insights into why physical presence remains crucial for professional development in financial services.

The Value of Face-to-Face Learning

“Entry-level job seekers really should be looking for opportunities where they can be face-to-face with people every single day,” Pettit emphasizes, based on his journey from The University of Texas at Dallas graduate to investment professional. “That’s where I learned the most — and how I grew the most.”

Beyond Remote Convenience

While acknowledging the appeal of remote work to recent graduates, Pettit takes a longer view. “The young people who want to pursue finance may find that attractive,” he notes regarding remote work opportunities. “They may see older friends or family who have these hybrid jobs, where they can travel or work from home. However, [for an] entry-level job, [they] really should be looking for opportunities where they can be face-to-face with people every single day.”

Learning Through Observation

Drawing from his experience in both commercial banking and private equity, Pettit emphasizes the irreplaceable value of in-person observation. “Unfortunately, I just don’t think remote environments provide that opportunity,” he says regarding the chance to learn from senior colleagues. His time as an Investment Associate at a family office particularly highlighted the importance of direct interaction with decision-makers.

The Professional Development Advantage

In Pettit’s experience, being physically present offers unique opportunities for growth:

  • Direct observation of leadership decision-making
  • Immediate feedback and guidance
  • Informal learning opportunities
  • Building stronger professional relationships
  • Understanding company culture firsthand

The Role of Mentorship

“Find mentors — I would definitely not be where I am today if it wasn’t for the mentors I have in my life,” Pettit advises. This mentorship, he suggests, is most effective when developed through regular in-person interaction.

Balancing Traditional and Modern Approaches

While advocating for in-person work, Pettit also emphasizes the importance of continuous learning through multiple channels. Drawing from his own experience pursuing his CFA® charter, which required over 600 hours of study, he notes, “Nobody required it of me. It’s something I did on my own. It was a lot of evenings and weekends studying.”

Building a Strong Foundation

For those beginning their careers in finance, Pettit recommends:

  • Seeking roles that require regular office presence
  • Looking for strong team cultures
  • Taking advantage of informal learning opportunities
  • Building relationships with potential mentors
  • Demonstrating initiative beyond basic job requirements

Looking Forward

As the financial industry continues to evolve, Pettit’s insights suggest that while remote work may have its place, the fundamental value of in-person professional development remains unchanged. His experience, from college graduate to investment professional, demonstrates the lasting benefits of prioritizing face-to-face interaction early in one’s career.

The perspective aligns with advice Pettit received early in his career: “I know that you just graduated, and you think that you have a college degree and know everything now; but that’s not the case — and you need to realize that you will need to continue learning for the rest of your career.” This continuous learning, he suggests, is best facilitated through direct, in-person interaction within the workplace.

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