How to break into Analysts with Personality of a Rock

First off, I want to say thank you to all Analysts who take the time to conduct coffee chats with their alum students. Genuinely appreciate the support during the recruiting process.

But I recently had a call with a Healthcare M&A lady who just had the personality of a rock.

I thought bankers were supposed to be super extraverted and personable. But she legit answered every question with "Yeahhh...it varies" and did not go into detail. I tried very hard to dig deeper – "Wow! Really? What made you specifically feel that way about it?"

Also, literally could hear her typing the first 10 mins (which is totally understandable - analysts are busy and coffee chats aren't their first priority).

But what's the point of coffee chats if I can't even have a conversation. And I am kinda disappointed cuz I just cut the call short to 15 mins because I wasn't getting any info or insights. How am I supposed to get them on my side to vouch for me if we can't even have a good chat?? (btw only have 2-3 alumni in the office so everyone counts!)

 

When you can tell the call isnt going anywhere and isnt going to be beneficial, then just end it when you can and thank them for their time. Some people are just not gonna be helpful and theres not much you can do to make them excited to talk to you. For the most part, people like to talk about themselves and also understand where you're coming from. Just keep networking and you'll talk to plenty of people, even if they're not alumni, who are happy to help 

 

Honestly just gotta brush it off and move on. Even the peppiest analysts will have days they are jammed, didn't sleep, and just need to get shit done. 

Also, you're not the client and they're doing you the favor, so there's no obligation to be super personable to you. 90% of people who respond to emails are very friendly and helpful on the phone, but sometimes people just aren't. You did the right thing cutting it short, if someone is clearly not into the conversation best to just let it go and move onto the next one.

If you only have 2-3 alums you definitely need to reach out to non-alums. Nearby schools, fellow non targets, totally random people. 

 

Most awkward network call I had was with an alum. We agreed upon a time and when I called he didn't answer. Left a message and then sent a follow up email. 2nd call we start talking and he pauses the call and puts me on hold for five minutes. Then comes back on and says "I'm surprised you're still on the line" and I can hear him trying to shoo people away from his desk. Then he just asks what I'm applying for and to send him my resume. It ended at that. Some people are just weird af. 

 

Had a call with L#ncoln once, I almost called it off when the analyst admitted they don´t give a shit about what they sell to the buyers. No wonder they are notorious for being a sweatshop.

...and the Truth shall set you free
 

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