Haven't been getting much first rounds for NYC. Where to go from here?
Hey everyone,
I'm a non-diverse west coast student (semi-target school in the West Coast, think like USC, Berkeley, etc.) and I haven't had any first rounds in New York despite having networked a decent amount with multiple firms. I know I shouldn't be getting like tens of interviews, but I just can't seem to get any first rounds.
Do these interviews come in waves, and how should I go about networking at this point? Do I spread a wide net and continue networking per usual? Or should I just call it wraps on some firms?
Based on the most helpful WSO content, here’s what you should consider:
Spread a Wider Net: If your current networking efforts haven’t yielded results, it’s time to expand your reach. Target more firms, including regional boutiques and middle-market banks. These can often lead to opportunities that eventually help you pivot to NYC.
Focus on Alumni and Personal Connections: Start with alumni from your school or anyone with a shared connection. They are more likely to respond and help. Use LinkedIn and your school’s alumni database to identify potential contacts.
Refine Your Cold Emails: If you’re not getting responses, revisit your email strategy. Make your outreach more personalized and concise. Highlight specific reasons why you’re reaching out to them and what you admire about their career or firm.
Follow Up Strategically: If you’ve already networked with people at certain firms, don’t hesitate to follow up. A polite follow-up email can sometimes reignite a conversation or remind them to push your resume.
Consider Geographic Flexibility: While NYC is the goal, don’t overlook opportunities in other cities like Chicago, LA, or SF. Regional offices often have less competition and can serve as a stepping stone.
Leverage Informational Interviews: Use these to build rapport and gain insights. Ask for advice on how to improve your candidacy or if they can connect you with someone else in their network.
Track Your Efforts: Use a spreadsheet to keep track of who you’ve contacted, their responses, and any follow-ups. This will help you stay organized and ensure you’re not missing opportunities.
Timing Matters: Recruiting often happens in waves, so don’t lose hope. Keep networking and be ready to jump on opportunities as they arise.
If you’re still struggling, consider taking a more aggressive approach, like temporarily relocating to NYC to attend networking events and meet people in person. As mentioned in the WSO dataset, proximity can sometimes make a big difference. For more detailed advice, check out resources like the "5 Rules of Getting a Job from a Non-Target School" guide here: [https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/investment-banking/5-rules-of-get…).
Sources: Non-target to non-MBB consulting -Q&A, Navigating Recruiting at Target Schools, 5 Rules of Getting a Job from a Non-Target School, Why can't I even get any interviews?, Non-Target Recruiting Guide Part I: Resume and Networking
Praesentium harum facilis qui placeat. Repudiandae rem eum et optio quibusdam molestias. Repellat sequi omnis omnis dignissimos ullam. Aut corrupti libero error tempore tempora quibusdam. Labore voluptates dolore laboriosam et odit similique molestiae. In harum sed dolores tenetur est porro. Distinctio qui voluptatem architecto earum rerum qui beatae.
Eaque nobis voluptas similique et. Est est eius voluptatem tempora temporibus ea. Consequatur nulla voluptatem nesciunt delectus qui iste quo. Illo eius et voluptatem. Dolorum asperiores qui atque.
Ipsam quaerat et eius recusandae est eos veniam. Nihil itaque saepe neque officia sint eum. Placeat eveniet voluptas ea dolor accusantium.
See All Comments - 100% Free
WSO depends on everyone being able to pitch in when they know something. Unlock with your email and get bonus: 6 financial modeling lessons free ($199 value)
or Unlock with your social account...