Networking Advice to Transfer After Summer Internship

To successfully transition to a bank in NYC after your summer internship, here’s a strategic approach based on the most helpful WSO content:

1. Timing Your Networking Efforts:

   • Start networking early, but strategically. You don’t need to wait until you’ve been at your internship for weeks, but it’s wise to have some initial experience under your belt before reaching out. This allows you to speak more confidently about your current role and responsibilities.
   • A good time to begin is a few weeks into your internship. By then, you’ll have a better understanding of your current firm and some tangible experiences to share during conversations.

2. Reaching Out to NYC Alumni:

   • Use LinkedIn or alumni databases to identify NYC-based professionals at your target banks. Focus on alumni from your school or those with similar backgrounds, as they are more likely to respond.
   • When reaching out, frame your intentions carefully. Highlight your interest in NYC as a long-term career move rather than dissatisfaction with your current firm. For example, you can mention that you’re exploring opportunities in NYC due to its unique market dynamics or personal reasons.

3. Crafting Your Message:

   • Keep your outreach concise and professional. A sample message could look like this: Hi Name, My name is [Your Name], and I’m currently a summer analyst at [Current Firm] in [Location]. I’m very interested in learning more about your experience at [Target Bank] and the NYC market. If you have 15-20 minutes, I’d greatly appreciate the chance to hear your insights and advice. Best regards, [Your Name]
   • Avoid directly asking for a job in your initial outreach. Focus on building relationships and gathering information.

4. Networking During the Internship:

   • Be discreet. Networking with competitors while interning can be sensitive. Use personal devices and avoid discussing your plans at work.
   • Schedule calls or coffee chats outside of work hours. If you’re in a financial hub, proximity can make it easier to meet in person.

5. Leverage Your Return Offer:

   • Having a return offer from your current firm is crucial. It demonstrates your value and gives you leverage when speaking with other banks.
   • Once you secure the return offer, you can be more direct in your conversations about exploring full-time opportunities in NYC.

6. Reconnecting with Old Contacts:

   • Don’t hesitate to reach out to contacts from your second-year recruiting. Even if you haven’t kept in touch, a polite and professional message can reopen the door. Acknowledge the gap in communication and express genuine interest in reconnecting.

7. Final Tips:

   • Be prepared to discuss your current internship experience and how it aligns with your long-term goals.
   • Practice your pitch and have thoughtful questions ready for your networking conversations.
   • Stay professional and positive about your current firm, even if you’re planning to leave.

By following these steps, you can effectively position yourself for a transition to NYC while maintaining professionalism and discretion.

Sources: Networking 101 – 8 tips from a “non-target” school student, Two Internships Later: What I wish I Knew While Recruiting! (Toronto), 7 Tips for the Boutique IB Summer Stint, Freshmen: What to do during your freshman year summer, Advice for summer and return offer rate?