Should I try getting a referral from a Partner or an Associate?

I have several alumni at Partner level (obviously much older than me) with whom I can get in touch. But should I really focus on impressing the Partners, or the Associates?

School of thought 1: Associates have more incentive in referring (as they care about money), as partners don't really care much about the 10k or so they'll get for a successful referral.

School of thought 2: Partner's referral would be stronger (obviously), and more likely to work (whatever that means)

Please provide your inputs.

6 Comments
 

I am assuming you're in college still. If you can build a solid rapport with a partner, then start there. At the end of a conversation, ask him/her for additional contacts at the group who you could speak with. They will most likely pass you over to an Analyst / Associate. Build good rep with them as well. You now have a strong foot in the door. Next step would be to not botch your interview and you should be in.

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If you are a campus recruit, there is zero financial incentive. You assist because you: 1) Like the person. 2) think they can do the job. 3) Better your standing in the firm / culture by saying you brought good talent into the group.

...
 

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