Off-cycle FT Associate MBA recruiting

Hi want to get some advice and just overall insights on typical cycling/timing for FT associate off-cycle recruiting.

Some context, I did an MBA IB internship but unfortunately they reduced the class. Didn’t do any recruiting at the end of the summer because I expected an offer and had great reviews. So all those last chance recruiting spots at end of summer were filled. In the fall most recruiters said to reach back out January and start of new year until now, conversations have been “still getting a sense of hiring/headcount needs.”

I am seeing some spots open up but they’re looking for experienced associates. Does this change over time? Like as ppl fill those spots up with experienced bankers and maybe some banks still need ppl, will they start to maybe adjust requirements and be more open to MBA associates. When do I call it and take an L? Pls offer any advice / guidance. Otherwise also accepting prayers . I need them.

6 Comments
 

Because of timing or because of the industry? And any alts suggestions where you don’t have to rework all your IB prep or can aim for while still aiming for IB. Basically alt targets that your recruiting prep work still applies for? For example I found aiming for consulting difficult since I never really cased and rather spend energy for casing on modeling and keeping technical fresh, networking etc.

 
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Intern in IB - Cov

Because of timing or because of the industry? And any alts suggestions where you don’t have to rework all your IB prep or can aim for while still aiming for IB. Basically alt targets that your recruiting prep work still applies for?

Both. The first month after internship decisions were the best month to recruit and since the summer of 2021 the FT associate market has been dead for just in time hiring. Any bank would rather just get an analyst. 

Equity research is the best alt. Maybe LMM PE or a family office would be my next choices. Going to an HSW or at least a Booth/Columbia/Stern will make a big difference

 

Thank you. Very helpful. I went to one of the schools mentioned. Let me know if
I should adjust based on that. Otherwise really appreciate your help.

 

Intern in IB - Cov

Thank you. Very helpful. I went to one of the schools mentioned. Let me know if
I should adjust based on that. Otherwise really appreciate your help.

I would say more possible but still low chance. Would be group by group basis and most likely where you know someone just declined their return offer to go there from your school 

 

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