Lateral recruiting
If you’re trying to lateral to another bank but staying in the same product group, is it frowned upon to reach out to an associate you worked with there on a previous deal and see if their team is hiring?
If you’re trying to lateral to another bank but staying in the same product group, is it frowned upon to reach out to an associate you worked with there on a previous deal and see if their team is hiring?
| +90 | [2026 - October] Unbiased Prestige Rankings | 56 | 4h |
| +88 | Who is the final boss in Houston Energy? (GS, JEFF or EVR) | 21 | 1h |
| +78 | You should probably leave IB | 26 | 1d |
| +45 | Why Do We Turn Comments? | 10 | 2d |
| +43 | Tomorrow Will Be Better | 5 | 4d |
| +41 | Moelis PCA vs Lower tier BB Coverage | 30 | 1d |
| +25 | Banking (Un)fortunately Still Needs You: My Case for Bankers in the AI Era | 3 | 1d |
| +24 | Lateraling as Analyst | 24 | 1h |
| +24 | How much should you ask questions / seek feedback as an intern? | 9 | 11h |
| +24 | UBS IB #24 in US M&A in 2026 | 10 | 8h |
Career Resources
Reaching out to an associate you worked with on a previous deal to inquire about hiring opportunities is not frowned upon and can actually be a smart move. Based on the most helpful WSO content, networking is a critical component of lateral recruiting, and leveraging existing relationships is highly encouraged. Many lateral openings are not publicly posted, and firms often prefer to tap into their network or referrals to fill positions quickly.
However, ensure that your outreach is professional and tactful. Frame your message as a genuine interest in learning more about their team and potential opportunities, rather than directly asking for a job. This approach can help maintain a positive impression and increase the likelihood of a productive conversation.
Sources: Black Jack's Recruiting Advice, Networking as a woman - my experience and questions, 20 Most Frequently Asked Questions - London Edition, Should I get straight to the point in my cold email?, Lateralling Job Market
Perferendis sed tenetur dolor placeat molestiae. Quasi mollitia itaque et tempore. Blanditiis sequi dicta necessitatibus non sint voluptatum atque.
See All Comments - 100% Free
WSO depends on everyone being able to pitch in when they know something. Unlock with your email and get bonus: 6 financial modeling lessons free ($199 value)
or Unlock with your social account...