For my third event, I went to the RBC Capital Markets D&I Discovery Day. This event lasted four hours and incorporated different activities and panels specific to people’s locations and interests. During the first session, it was helpful to hear about the importance of networking and what it means to network. I learned networking techniques like asking questions to people at events because the easiest way to make conversation is to make people talk about themselves. I also learned to be intentional when networking rather than aimlessly trying to connect with people for no reason. They also taught me that attention is a commodity and that simply giving it to others can make all the difference. This part of the workshop was interesting and put into perspective how networking can help me and how to strategize when networking.
The second part of this event showed me what it would actually mean to work within RBC and the different parts of each department. They taught me about the different types of markets (primary and secondary), what they do, where research comes in, and how all these markets interact with each other. They showed me what it means to be a part of the buying or selling side, and where municipal finance comes into play within the company. Before coming into this workshop event, I did not know much about investment banking and what the different parts and functions were. After this workshop, I had a better idea of what each job does and their intersections, and where they diverge. Though I do not know how my interests would align with each job yet, this was a great initial introduction to the company and investment banking in general.
The final portion of this workshop was learning about the different affinity groups that are formed within this company and how RBC supports those a part of marginalized groups. It was comforting to hear that many people in those communities felt supported by their company and that they found people that could relate to them and who were allies. As a bi, woman of color, I do want to work for a company that will make me feel safe and respected within my identity, and these affinity groups sounded like a safe space for all.
