FT Recruiting Guidance (MM NYC SA, Non-Target)

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here’s a breakdown of your questions and some actionable advice:

1. Pre-Internship Networking

• Starting light networking around March/April before your SA is generally acceptable, but it’s crucial to approach it tactfully. The key is to avoid explicitly discussing FT recruiting at this stage. Instead, focus on building relationships and having informational conversations about the industry, teams, or firms you’re targeting.
• A "low-key" approach is recommended. Limit outreach to 10-20 emails per week and aim to connect with 1-2 bankers per group you’re targeting. This ensures quality over quantity and avoids overwhelming your contacts.
• Be mindful of how you position yourself. Frame your outreach as a genuine interest in learning about their experiences rather than a direct pitch for FT opportunities.

2. Referencing Your SA When Networking

• Opinions on this are mixed, but the general consensus is to downplay your SA role when networking pre-internship or early in the summer. Avoid including your SA bank on your resume or emphasizing it in conversations, as it might signal to others that you’re not fully committed to your current firm.
• Instead, focus on discussing your broader interest in the industry or specific areas like EB or Rx. This keeps the conversation professional and forward-looking without raising any red flags about your intentions.

3. Additional Tips for FT Recruiting

• Timing: While your SA should remain your top priority, you can start exploring FT opportunities discreetly during the summer. Use lunch breaks or after-hours for networking calls to avoid conflicts with your internship schedule.
• Clandestine Approach: Be strategic about your outreach. Your co-workers and co-interns should have no idea you’re exploring FT options. Maintain a positive and committed attitude at your current firm, as the SA is essentially a 10-week interview.
• Networking Strategy: Even if some firms aren’t hiring, networking can still yield valuable connections. These relationships might not lead to immediate offers but could open doors in the future.

By following these strategies, you can balance your SA responsibilities while positioning yourself for FT recruiting success. Good luck!

Sources: How to Navigate FT Recruiting: Learn from My Successes/Failures, When to start networking for FT ‘25, What will FT Recruiting look like this year?