How to leverage current internship
To preface this I am a current rising freshman at a college on the west coast and I live on the east coast 40 mins from NYC. I secured an internship at the start of the summer at a bond adjacent research company where I interact with MDs and VPs at all the top funds on a daily basis to receive books on investment grade bond deals via IB on Bloomberg. I asked my boss if it was possible to ask for a shadowing opportunity to come in and see what they do and build relationships at the syndicate desks I talk to. And they said most desks won't really do that.
I was wondering if it would inappropriate for me to ask anyways to come in and see what they do and actually interact in person not necessarily at a syndicate desk? Is there any other appropriate way to ask like a visit or something that they would commonly due? The main thing is I am way out of a recruitment cycle so I would be visiting as someone who won't be applying for 2 years. And what would be the best way of doing it on IB or email?
PS- some of the bankers I am on a good relationship with and it won't be like they are getting a message from someone they have never heard of.
To make the most of your current internship and build relationships effectively, here’s a strategic approach based on the most helpful WSO content:
Frame Your Request Thoughtfully:
Since your boss mentioned that shadowing at syndicate desks might not be feasible, consider rephrasing your request. Instead of asking to shadow, you could express interest in learning more about their work and gaining insights into their day-to-day operations. For example, you could say:
"I’ve really enjoyed interacting with the team and learning about the bond market. I was wondering if there might be an opportunity to visit the office and gain a better understanding of how the team operates. I’m eager to learn and would greatly appreciate any time or guidance you could provide."
Leverage Existing Relationships:
If you already have a good rapport with some of the bankers, reach out to them directly. Keep the tone professional and respectful of their time. A concise email or IB message could work well. For example:
"Hi [Banker’s Name],
I hope this message finds you well. I’ve really enjoyed working with you and learning from our interactions this summer. I was wondering if there might be an opportunity to visit the office and gain a deeper understanding of your work. I’m not in the recruitment cycle yet, but I’m eager to learn more about the industry and would greatly appreciate any insights you could share. Please let me know if this is something that might be possible."
Timing and Medium:
Alternative Approaches:
If visiting the office isn’t feasible, consider asking for a virtual informational session or a phone call. This shows flexibility and respect for their time.
Maintain Professionalism:
Even though you’re not in the recruitment cycle, treat this as a networking opportunity. Keep your communication professional and focused on learning rather than seeking favors.
Follow Up:
If you don’t receive a response within a week, it’s okay to send a polite follow-up email. Limit follow-ups to two attempts to avoid being overly persistent.
By approaching this thoughtfully and professionally, you can maximize your internship experience and build valuable relationships for the future.
Sources: Two Internships Later: What I wish I Knew While Recruiting! (Toronto), On Campus Recruitment and Networking: A guide, How To Really Network And Land That Offer, You want a summer analyst offer? Here's how...
Bump but bad post title. Post would prob get more traction if it didn’t make you sound like any old intern
No. Do not do this right now, at least not outright from your end. I've certainly done exactly what you're describing but it always came from the person asking me if I wanted the opportunity ("opportunity" normally being coming into their office for an hour or two). I never asked.
As it stands right now you are an employee of the research firm. Act like it.
After your internship is done, then you can reach out to those you had better relationships with at the other firms and speak to them. Don't ask for anything big initially, just ask to learn, keep requests low effort. Build the relationship, then make a big ask.
This is networking.
So what’s my best bet if I am at the will of a banker? It is busy season rn for corporate debt issues so I doubt they will reach out to me. And because all of my work is done remote out of office
if it's busy time then the request will be received even worse. you can network with them on your own time after the internship ends and ask to learn more about their end and hint towards wanting to go in but asking yourself is like asking for a referral in a coffee chat
Would it be best to do on Bloomberg while I still can or better to do through there email?
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