Networking with Equity Research Associates Right Now

Yes, wait a couple weeks.

Use a calendar like this to judge timing: https://www.zacks.com/earnings/earnings-calendar

If you wanna be safe, I'd start week of Aug 17. Banks should be done with eps already, so if your connection covers bank, you have the green light imo.

Earnings seasons vary by sector to a degree. Industries that have January year ends are not in an earnings season currently but could pick up in a few weeks for example. Would do some light digging on the coverage universe of people you are reaching out to.

it’s fine to reach out now to schedule something in the future. but they might also ignore your email so you’re better off waiting.

I would definitely wait until earnings season is over. There’s no rush to network right now as spring recruiting is over and fall recruiting for ER won’t pick up until late September/early October. If you have to network right now I’d do it with associates from your school if possible as that will likely negate any negative feelings they have about you bothering them during earnings season. Overall, I’d wait though, and even when you do decide to send the email later, you can let them know you were planning to network, but were waiting for earnings season to pass- subtely shows you understand the industry too.