ER Recruiting?

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here's what you need to know:

1. Preparation and Networking:

   • Tracker: Keep a detailed tracker of your networking efforts. Use Excel or Google Docs to track who you contact, when you contacted them, and the stage of networking. This helps you stay organized and follow up appropriately.
   • Research: Research as much as you can about the people you will meet. Have intelligent questions ready that go beyond what you can find with a simple Google search. Focus on group culture, direction/strategy, and avoid asking about compensation.

2. Timeline:

   • Start Early: It's beneficial to start networking early, but be mindful of the impression it gives. Some posts suggest that networking too early might seem like you're not giving your current group a chance. It might be more effective to start after the first few weeks of your Summer Analyst (SA) position.
   • Cold Emails: If you start networking now, tailor your cold emails differently than when you were recruiting for your SA position. Highlight your current experiences and how they align with the roles you're targeting.

3. Additional Tips:

   • Network Across Levels: Don't just aim for senior professionals. Network across all levels of the industry, including analysts and associates, as they are often involved in undergraduate recruiting.
   • Email Timing: Consider emailing on Tuesdays and Saturdays when people are generally less busy.
   • Cost Management: If networking involves travel, create a spreadsheet to manage and prioritize the costs of meeting each person.

4. Decision Making:

   • Return Offers: If you receive a return offer from your SA position, understand the timeline for accepting it. Firms often start full-time recruiting after assessing the headcount from SA return offers.

By following these steps, you can ensure that you are well-prepared and strategically networking for your full-time role in 2025.

Sources: Some Thoughts on Networking, Want to get me on the phone? Here's how - a networking overview., 10 Friendly Reminders While Networking for SA Programs (from a BB Analyst Perspective), Some Thoughts on Networking, Networking and timeline for 2023 FT IBD recruiting