Network via BBG Chat?
Hi guys,
I am currently interning in a research role at a big public institution that is well known (think BIS, IMF, Central Bank). One of the cool things is that I am included in BBG chats with many sell side banks and have access to pretty much all of sell-side research. How can I make use of that to network and potentially land a role? Mind you, I have received very quick answers on BBg chat from strategists/researchers whenever I asked technical questions. Would you say it’s worth trying out to reach out that way? Particularly looking for sth in macro/rates research where roles posted seem to be sparse and not as structured as in IB.
Thank you !
Leveraging BBG chat for networking can be a powerful tool, especially given your unique position. Based on the most helpful WSO content, here’s how you can approach this effectively:
Build Credibility Through Technical Questions:
Since you've already received quick responses to technical questions, continue to engage in this manner. Ask thoughtful, well-researched questions that demonstrate your knowledge and genuine interest in macro/rates research. This positions you as someone serious and competent.
Transition to Career Conversations:
After establishing rapport through technical discussions, you can gradually steer the conversation toward career advice. For example, you might say, "I really appreciate your insights on [topic]. I'm currently exploring opportunities in macro/rates research and would value any advice you might have on breaking into the field."
Be Respectful of Their Time:
Keep your messages concise and professional. Avoid overwhelming them with long messages or frequent pings. A well-timed, thoughtful message is more likely to get a positive response.
Request Informational Chats:
Once you've built some rapport, consider asking for a brief call or coffee chat. For instance, "Would you be open to a quick 15-minute call sometime? I'd love to hear more about your career path and any advice you might have for someone aspiring to work in macro research."
Leverage Your Access to Sell-Side Research:
Use the research you have access to as a conversation starter. For example, "I was reading your recent report on [topic], and I found [specific insight] particularly interesting. Could you share more about how you approached that analysis?" This shows you're engaged and thoughtful.
Follow Up and Stay in Touch:
After any interaction, send a thank-you message and keep the relationship warm by occasionally sharing relevant articles, insights, or updates about your progress.
Be Strategic About Who You Reach Out To:
Focus on individuals who are directly involved in macro/rates research or have influence in hiring decisions. Prioritize those who seem approachable and responsive.
By using BBG chat thoughtfully and strategically, you can turn your current access into a valuable networking opportunity that could lead to a role in macro/rates research.
Sources: 10 Friendly Reminders While Networking for SA Programs (from a BB Analyst Perspective), 10 Friendly Reminders While Networking for SA Programs (from a BB Analyst Perspective), Want to get me on the phone? Here's how - a networking overview., Navigating The Floor: A S&T Analyst's Guide, How One Student Did Coffee Chats Right - Received Offer From A BB
Bbg IM is generally seen as aggressive if you're using it as an overt means to soliciting a job. Don't mistake receptiveness when you're seen as "the client" with liking you personally.
If you genuinely already have a relationship with someone, nothing wrong with pursuing via IM. But a cold outreach on bbg is likely to receive a frosty (or no) response. I personally prefer email for situations like that where you can set the stage and be more gentle about it.
Thank you. My worry is that they’d be less inclined to answer a text from a random email with their employers security maybe even preventing my mail from reaching his / her inbox. But writing it via work email isn’t probably feasible as well.
LinkedIn then. Second the above highly highly recommend not reaching out via IB for reasons above…prob better chance of getting resume “discarded” that way. Btw you know most firms compliance monitor BBG chat right?
As a slight counterpoint to the above, I’ve used BBG specifically for job hunting type of networking, but I did it at my first buyside job so it’s quite a different starting point than where you are now. Generally speaking, IB chat is seen as adding a more personal touch to business relationships, or for very time sensitive messages that you don’t want buried in an inbox.
I think if you utilize some tact in what you’re doing (big if true lol), you can use BBG as a way of engaging with people quickly on their subject matter, but then transition off to email for follow-ups like networking or overt job-seeking purposes. Just don’t be autistic and attach your resume in the chat box or some weird shit. And don’t abuse the privilege you currently enjoy of being a bank’s client. But I don’t think leveraging it smartly is taboo
I usually book the call through email/linkedin then can use IB to follow up day of the chat if needed
your seniors may have people they know that they can refer you to / make warm introductions
del
Thanks for all the answers. I will write to some strategists starting next week on BBG Chat and then slowly inquire about potential roles. Will keep you updated!
I’ve never seen someone do this successfully.
Update 1: I am 2/2 rn. Will have 2 calls in the coming weeks. Obviously it doesn’t mean that sth. Will develop, but at least it is a start. Will try to contact 5 other individuals next week and report afterwards.
Complete left field / snowball thought;
make a chat room, but put thoughts, gain traction, …., win?
Slow burn, requires approval from company but I think that’d be cool - I see some firms do successful chatrooms.
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