How To Really Network And Land That Offer

Hey all,

I am glad to hear that my story resonated with many, always happy to help (you can see it here). Of the many messages I have been receiving, a substantial amount of them focus on networking and how to do so effectively. Many of you here have the motivation, which is great. However, a goal is only as good as its execution. It is with this in mind that I will be briefly outlining some very important strategies that I believe helped me in my summer analyst search.

The Right Perspective

First things first, it is all about MINDSET and PERSPECTIVE. What do you, an undergrad, have to offer experienced professionals? The short answer is not much, if anything at all. You are not creating as much value as you will be paid for in the summer, should you receive an offer in the first place. You are being hired instead because bankers see potential in investing in you to be a working professional in the field. How do you show that you are the right guy? It’s all about your competence, enthusiasm and desire to learn.

It is with this mindset that I approach my networking emails and phone calls. I am sending an email to professionals to genuinely learn more about their background and experiences at their bank. I may gain a new, unique perspective from speaking with them and if I am lucky, I may have set the foundation for making a new friend in the field who may help me later. Andy and Patrick have given you all an incredible resource in the form of the WSO networking guide, which I highly suggest for those looking for proper email templates to use. Approach networking with the mindset of wanting to learn, as opposed to wanting a job. Your interactions will be far more successful and you will benefit in the long run.

Maintaining Relationships

I maintain my relationships by updating contacts with my progress. I also touch on unique interests. Did you get that first round interview with UBS? Ask your fellow alumni at Barclays what he thinks, and maybe ask him for a mock interview if he has the time. Is one of your contacts a big Seahawks fan? Send him a quick email and congratulate them on the big win. Will you be in town next week? Send them an email and ask if they would be free to meet. Be tactful and genuine, it will take you a long way. Eventually you will find that emails become less formal and more natural. Communication becomes effortless. If you find yourself in this situation, pat yourself on the back because you are doing something right. It is only when I feel that I have built enough rapport with a banker that I will ask them for an opportunity to interview at their firm, if they have not already extended the invitation.

Learning To Close

Networking only gets you so far. You NEED to master how to close. As you go about your networking process, you must be extremely aware of your strengths and weaknesses and how you can use both to your advantage. Recruitment is very competitive and the best way to stand out is to know yourself well enough to sell yourself effectively. Why did that guy with a 3.3 get an offer from Goldman Sachs over the guy from Harvard with a 3.9? Because the guy with the 3.3 sold himself better. Craft a tight story, know your resume, and mock interview until you are sick of it. With that being said, know technical questions like the back of your hand. There is nothing worse than finally being given the chance to compete and being caught sucking your thumb.

DO be persistent
DO brush up and know your stuff
DO be diligent in maintaining your network

DO NOT bullshit
DO NOT lie

and most importantly,

DO NOT give up. Not receiving responses? Modify your email templates and move on. Not closing your interviews? mock interview with a friend who will give you unbiased feedback. Not motivated enough? Find another career, because someone else with more motivation will take your place.

Hope this was helpful, as always feel free to leave questions in the comments section.