Lateral Advice

Hello All,

I'm currently an analyst at a very small regional boutique bank where I started full time at the beginning of July. It has been very rewarding and I've learned a lot, but I plan on lateraling. I've spoken with a couple of analysts at BBs who have had conflicting views about what I should do for lateral recruiting and am curious to hear what others think would be the best option. One analyst said if i start reaching out too early in the process it could end up hurting me if I get my name out too early as I could be forgotten too early in the process. However, I think if I start contacting employees at places I want to work now it could get me on the radar as long as I maintain the relationship. If any others who have gone through this experience or have experience hiring lateral analysts could give me some pointers that would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks!