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Based on the most helpful WSO content, here’s how you can improve your chances of lateraling into IB:

1. Referrals Are Key: While applying online can work, it’s often not enough. Networking is crucial for lateral hires. Reach out to alumni, friends, or acquaintances in IB who can refer you internally. A referral significantly increases the likelihood of your application being reviewed.

2. Cold Emailing: Many successful lateral hires have emphasized the importance of cold emailing. Identify bankers in the groups you’re targeting (LinkedIn is a great tool for this) and send personalized emails expressing your interest. Highlight your relevant experience with private equity funds and transaction advisory services.

3. Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume is tailored to highlight transferable skills and deal experience. If you haven’t already, consider using WSO’s investment banking resume review service to refine it further.

4. Target the Right Banks: If you’re not hearing back from top-tier banks like Moelis, consider broadening your search to include mid-tier MM firms or boutiques. These banks may have more openings and could be easier to break into as a lateral hire.

5. Leverage Job Boards and Alerts: Platforms like Indeed.com and LinkedIn often post lateral IB roles. Set up daily alerts for “investment banking analyst” positions in your desired cities to stay on top of new opportunities.

6. Be Persistent and Patient: The lateral process is unstructured and can take weeks or even months. Keep applying, networking, and following up on applications. Persistence often pays off.

7. Interview Preparation: Once you secure interviews, be ready to discuss your deal experience in detail. Know the sell-side M&A process cold, including origination, execution, and key steps like creating marketing materials, buyer outreach, and management meetings.

8. Consider Headhunters: Some lateral hires have found success working with headhunters who specialize in financial services. They can help match your profile with open positions.

By combining these strategies, you’ll increase your chances of breaking into IB as a lateral hire. Good luck!

Sources: Lateraling Guide for Investment Banking, https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/private-equity/just-broke-into-ib-as-a-lateral-how-do-plan-my-move-to-pe?customgpt=1, Guide to Lateraling in 2021, Is it possible to Lateral as an analyst with no closed deals, Lateraling Guide for Investment Banking