BB Interview - Weird Situation

I don't think there is anything wrong with asking, especially given that you were referred by a different person. I had a similar situation and they didn't seem to be bothered by me asking. That said, the advice I always hear, and usually give, is that while most networking calls/meetings aren't technically an interview, you should prepare like they are. Now of course you don't need to spend as much time preparing, but even with networking calls, which it sounds like that's what he is talking about, you should have questions prepared, know why you want to do investment management, what is going on in the markets, etc.

Specifically, I wouldn't mention the fiscal cliff because while it's definitely important, don't talk about it unless he does because it could quickly turn into a political discussion which is never good. Best of luck

Thanks for the reply proptrader.

How does something like this sound?

Mr. xx,

I will be sure to follow up with you Monday. (*He asked me to email him to see what times were available)

Just one other thing - could you provide me with any details on what we might go over? I am unsure if this is an informational interview or an interview for a specific position within the Investment Management division at xx and would like to prepare accordingly.

Thanks, xx

I really don't think it is an interview....probably just talking to you about the work and position and why you are interested. I mean you would prepare basically the same way for an informational interview as you would for a first round fit interview with an alum. Idk just my opinion but I think the script you typed out above will make you look fairly foolish if he is just looking to speak with you about his work/the firm and recruiting process. Setting something up in my experience has always meant just an informal chat.

Actually, now that I read Black Jack's post I would have to agree. Now that I think about it, my situation involved a recruiter so I had to try to interpret her bullshit "would you be available to discuss your career interests and qualifications". If the guy, who I'm assuming is in charge of recruiting but actually works in IM, wanted it to be an interview I think he would have said so. I think Black Jack is right in saying that first round interviews are entirely different so just prepare like it's an interview and at worst you are more prepared than necessary which can only help in the future.

dam that's a good question...I'm thinking more and more that this can't possibly be an interview. I think your assumption is logical though. Your post brings up another question though which is how to get someone to refer you to another division within a bank. Unfortunately I can't answer that one because I only did recruiting with smaller firms where it wasn't an issue