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Based on the most helpful WSO content, networking for FT recruiting is a delicate balance of timing and persistence. While it's great to start building connections early, reaching out too soon can sometimes backfire, as bankers may not yet have clarity on their hiring needs or may still be focused on wrapping up SA recruiting.

For FT recruiting, many suggest starting to network closer to the summer, particularly around weeks 3-5 of your internship if you're currently interning. This timing allows you to demonstrate your experience and discuss projects/deals you've worked on, which can make your conversations more engaging and relevant. Additionally, bankers are more likely to have a clearer picture of their hiring needs by then.

If you're not interning yet, you can still lay the groundwork by researching firms, identifying alumni or mutual connections, and preparing thoughtful outreach. However, avoid being overly aggressive with cold emails right now, as it might come across as premature. Instead, focus on quality over quantity—target specific individuals with personalized messages that show genuine interest in their work and firm.

If your hit rate on emails is low, it might not necessarily be your email content but rather the timing or the recipients' current priorities. Consider revisiting your outreach strategy closer to the summer when bankers are more likely to engage in FT recruiting discussions.

Sources: Dear College Students..., How to Navigate FT Recruiting: Learn from My Successes/Failures, Houston 2018 Investment Banking Summer Analyst Recruiting, My FT Recruiting Process, When to start networking for FT ‘25