Networking at BBS coming from a target
I come from a target school, but alumni generally dont respond. I was wondering, for BBs that have campus recruiting teams for my specific school, is it worth it to try and speak to non Alumni at that bank. Can they actually provide a referral or any assistance outside of helping me formulate the "why x bank" answer, or having a possible connection to someone in my school?
I havent really been able to talk to alumni at BBs because they dont respond, and was wondering if I am just cooked or if I should send some last minute cold emails to non alumni in hopes they can help.
Based on the most helpful WSO content, reaching out to non-alumni at BBs can still be a valuable strategy, even if your school's alumni aren't responsive. Here's why and how to approach it:
Non-Alumni Can Still Help: Non-alumni professionals at BBs can provide insights into the firm's culture, recruiting process, and team dynamics. While they may not have the same personal connection to your school, they can still offer guidance, share their experiences, and potentially refer you if they see potential in you.
Referrals Are Possible: While alumni are often the go-to for networking, non-alumni can also provide referrals. If you build a strong rapport during your conversation, they might connect you with someone in their team or even directly recommend you to HR. This is especially true if they are impressed by your genuine interest and preparation.
Cold Email Strategy:
Timing Matters: While it’s late in the process, sending last-minute cold emails can still yield results. Some professionals may respond quickly, especially if they see your email as thoughtful and well-crafted.
Keep Connections Warm: If someone responds, maintain the relationship by following up with updates or thanking them for their advice. Even if they can’t help immediately, they might assist in the future.
Alternative Strategies:
Remember, networking is about building relationships, not just securing referrals. Even if non-alumni can’t directly help with a referral, they can still provide valuable insights and connections that might open doors later. Keep pushing forward!
Sources: Alumni just don't care, Q&A: Non-target undergrad to MBB, Q&A: Recent graduate starting at MBB soon, Q&A: From Corporate Finance to Corporate Strategy (Supply), Non-Target Recruiting Guide Part I: Resume and Networking
Bump
In same boat, don’t stress- we always have KPMG
Genuinely, which target school has alumni that generally don't respond? Networking is multi-faceted and you have to email alums, people who are at info sessions, people who come on campus, connections, etc.
DM if needed
Can we DM
I go to NYU. Alumni dont just not generally respond, they dont respond at all. We have no school spirit, and also have thousands of students recruiting who all send out mass emails. That combo pretty much leads to no responses from alum. Happy to chat if you have any advice but this is currently the boat I am in.
Similar at UChicago and Cornell
That's the issue with a large school like NYU. Still, I would try to find any sort of connection like same school, same country (if you're intl), same interests, same something.
Do you go to Stern? If so, I would network with Stern undergrads and MBA's. You have to find some sort of connection.
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