Cold emailing a hiring manager — bad move? + advice for non-target girl trying to get into asset management/ commercial banking

Cold emailing a hiring manager can be a bold move, but it’s not inherently a bad one—if done correctly. Based on the most helpful WSO content, here’s how you can approach this effectively and maximize your chances:

1. Cold Emailing the Hiring Manager:

• Keep it Short and Targeted: Hiring managers are busy, so your email should be concise and to the point. Introduce yourself, mention your interest in the specific role, and politely ask for advice or insights about the position. Avoid directly asking if you’re a good fit—it’s better to frame it as seeking guidance.
• Avoid Attaching Your Resume: As highlighted in WSO threads, including your resume can make the email feel like an unsolicited application, which might lower your response rate. Instead, focus on building a connection and showing genuine interest.

• Personalize the Email: Mention something specific about the company or the role that excites you. This demonstrates that you’ve done your homework and aren’t sending a generic message.

  Example Template:

  Subject: Seeking Advice on [Role Name] at [Company Name] Hi [Hiring Manager’s Name], My name is [Your Name], and I’m a rising junior at [Your University], pursuing a career in asset management. I recently came across the [specific role] at [Company Name] and was impressed by [specific detail about the company or role]. I’d love to learn more about your team and any advice you might have for someone from a non-target background looking to break into the field. If you have 10-15 minutes for a quick chat, I’d greatly appreciate it. Thank you for your time, and I hope to hear from you soon! Best regards, [Your Name]

2. Advice for Breaking into Asset Management/Commercial Banking from a Non-Target:

• Leverage Alumni Networks: Alumni are often more willing to help. Use LinkedIn or your school’s alumni directory to find people in asset management or commercial banking, especially in Boston. A warm introduction can be more effective than a cold email.
• Focus on Informational Interviews: As WSO threads suggest, cold emails should aim to secure informational interviews rather than directly asking for a job. These conversations can lead to referrals or introductions to hiring managers.
• Consistency is Key: Send 15-20 targeted emails daily over a sustained period (e.g., 12 weeks). This approach has been proven effective for non-target candidates.
• Highlight Your Unique Story: Use your non-target background as a strength. Share how your experiences, leadership roles, and feedback from your JPM superday have shaped your career aspirations. A compelling narrative can set you apart.

3. Standing Out in Boston’s Finance Scene:

• Target Boutique Firms: Smaller firms in Boston may not have rigid recruiting pipelines and could be more open to non-target candidates.
• Showcase Local Ties: If you have any connection to Boston (e.g., family, school, or previous internships), emphasize it. Firms often prefer candidates with a genuine interest in the region.
• Master Technical Skills: Be ready to discuss technical questions confidently. For asset management, focus on portfolio management concepts, valuation techniques, and market trends.

4. Final Thoughts:

• Cold emailing isn’t a dumb move—it’s a strategic one if executed well. Just ensure your email is professional, personalized, and focused on building a connection rather than directly asking for a job.
• Keep learning from each experience, as you did with your JPM superday. Feedback and persistence are your best allies.

Good luck breaking into asset management in Boston! With the right strategy and consistent effort, you can overcome the non-target hurdle and land the role you’re aiming for.

Sources: Stand Out as a Non-Target: Recruiting (Part 1 of 4), Guide: Cold Contacting Investment Bankers For Non Targets, Something wrong with my cold email?, So you want to cold email me? Here's how you do it right., Guide: Cold Contacting Investment Bankers For Non Targets