How do you gauge Buyside Opps from a firm?

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some strategies to gauge buyside opportunities from your firm and how to approach bankers/former bankers about their experiences:

Strategies to Gauge Buyside Opportunities:

1. LinkedIn Analysis:

   • While LinkedIn can show successful placements, it doesn't provide the full picture. Use it as a starting point to identify trends and common paths.

2. WSO Forums:

   • Despite some skepticism about the content, WSO forums can still provide valuable insights. Look for threads with high engagement and contributions from verified professionals.

3. Direct Outreach:

   • Reach out to associates and senior bankers in the group you're interested in. This can be done after applying to a position to learn more about the group culture and buyside recruiting experiences.

How to Politely Ask Bankers/Former Bankers:

1. Networking:

   • Leverage your network to connect with current or former bankers. Start with people you have a direct or indirect connection with, such as alumni or mutual acquaintances.

2. Informational Interviews:

   • Request informational interviews to learn about their career paths and experiences. Frame your questions to show genuine interest in their journey and insights.

3. Specific Questions:

   • Ask specific questions about the buyside recruiting process, such as:
     • "Can you share your experience with buyside recruiting from our firm?"
     • "What challenges did you face, and how did you overcome them?"
     • "Would you recommend lateraling to another firm to improve buyside opportunities?"

4. Professionalism:

   • Maintain a professional tone and respect their time. Be clear about your intentions and appreciative of their insights.

Example Approach:

• Email/Message Template:

  Hi Name, I hope this message finds you well. My name is [Your Name], and I am an incoming Summer Analyst at Firm. I am starting to explore buyside opportunities and would greatly appreciate any insights you could share about your experience with buyside recruiting from our firm. Specifically, I am interested in understanding the challenges and opportunities you encountered and whether you would recommend lateraling to another firm to enhance buyside prospects. Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to any advice you can provide. Best regards, [Your Name]

By following these strategies and maintaining a professional approach, you can gather valuable insights to better navigate your buyside recruiting journey.

Sources: PE Lateral Recruiting Advice/Stories/Help?, Lateraling Guide for Investment Banking, Best Practices for Finding Lateral Opportunities, 7 Practical Buyside Recruiting Tips for IBD Analysts, My Experience Recruiting as an Undergrad for Everything vs WSO Wisdom