Career CPR: I've had two great job offers in trading but I can't decide which one to take

As you mentioned earlier the Credit Prop position would allow you a lot of freedom and flexibility to make your own decisions. In my view this would be far more interesting than a straight flow trading role.

That said, it depends on your character .. if you are self-motivated, organised and able to back yourself then prop is great, otherwise it's much easier to start on a more flow-based role and then move onto prop when your confident.

But lets be honest, you wouldn't be considering trading if you didn't like a bit of risk, so why wouldn't you go prop?

To those looking to get into a trading role, the usual path is to spend a few years in middle-office getting a handle on the products, valuation, trade processing, risk, etc. If you can prove yourself to be sharp and show interest, you will usually be given an opportunity to start as a junior trader.

Be aware trading is highly-competitive, so you really have to make sure you stand out above the pack to get in.

I would go for the credit role - it seems more interesting and challenging so why not?

I'm also interested in how you got the role, I have similar experience to you and working at a big 4 atm. I'm also interested in trading but seems a bit lost as to how to go about securing such a role. Can you give me some advice on how to get into trading and how you got your role? (ft.tomy@gmail.com)

Cheers

Which commercial banks are running prop desks these days anyway?

I am an experienced recruiter (circa 10 years) in the finance market and I would suggest the Credit role, you are rewarded for your performance and driven by your own motivation to succeed. The FX role will be very limited moving forward and you are at the mercy global economies more so than in credit prop...tough choice - I always say to go with your gut, you should have a feeling as to which one is better for you culturally - never pick a role based on a higher salary if you feel the culture doesn't suit you - you'll only be back on the market within 12 months. Money can't improve a culture...and you won't be happy turning up to work for an extra $10K if the company isn't supportive or the right environment. Good luck!!

I think you should do some research into exactly what your applying for.
Depending on your risk limits, which will be a function of your ability and experience, it is possible to take some pretty punchy prop positions (PPPP) as a market maker. A good MM on desk with good flow can generate just as a good PnL as a prop trader.... PnL being the main driver in bonus decisions...