Working with sharp, creative emerging Wall Street talent is one of my favorite parts of the job. But as you move from the binary world of academia (A vs. B, right vs. wrong) into the nuanced, persuasion-driven world of high finance, many hit the same challenge:
“How do I speak up in a room full of experienced bankers when I’m not 100% sure I’m right?”
A small percentage seem to do this naturally. Maybe it’s personality, maybe they invested time developing the skill. But for most, it wasn’t taught in school — and it can trigger real anxiety.
Here’s the reality: It’s rare to meet someone truly successful who can’t express their opinion with clarity and confidence. On Wall Street, the ability to deliver a compelling argument can make or break you.
Think about an IB bake-off: all three competing banks will have the right numbers in their models. But only one wins the mandate — usually the one whose team makes the most persuasive, compelling case.
How to Build Your Voice
- Accept the Risk – Having a voice means risking that your opinion won’t prevail. That’s fine.
- Shift Your Mindset – Walk into every meeting expecting to be called on. If you hide in the background, you shrink your future opportunities.
- Pick Your Timing – Early in your career, share your perspective when you have an information edge for example, right before you hand work to a senior banker.
- Get Reps Anywhere – Practice on small decisions. Pizza or burgers? Found a problem? Always pair it with a potential solution.
For Senior Leaders
Want to grow confident voices on your team? Make it a habit to ask: “What’s your opinion?”
It’s simple, but it sends a powerful signal: Your voice matters here.