sos advice needed - crying junior

It's not too late to network for middle market (MM) or boutique investment banks as a rising junior, but you'll need to act quickly and strategically. Here's what you should do:

1. Middle Market (MM) Banks

• MM firms often recruit on an ad-hoc basis, meaning they may still have openings if you start networking now.
• Networking efficiently over the next 3-6 months can yield results, especially if you cast a wide net.
• Focus on reaching out to analysts and associates at MM firms. Use LinkedIn or alumni networks to find connections.

2. Boutique Banks

• Boutique banks are a great option if you're starting late. They tend to have more flexible timelines and may not require as structured a recruiting process as bulge brackets or MMs.
• Smaller cities often have boutique firms that are overlooked but still offer solid experience. Research firms in these areas and reach out to managing directors (MDs) or senior bankers directly.

3. How to Network

• Tailored Outreach: Create a spreadsheet of target firms and send personalized emails to MDs or analysts. Include your resume and a brief note about your interest in learning more about their firm.
• Leverage Alumni: If you're at a semi-target or target school, use your alumni network to connect with people in IB.
• Persistence: Start sending emails immediately and follow up if you don’t hear back. Timing is critical.

4. Where to Look

• Google Search: Use terms like "middle market investment banks [city/state]" or "boutique investment banks [city/state]" to identify firms.
• WSO Company Database: This is a great resource to find firms and contacts.
• Regional Focus: Consider targeting firms in smaller cities or regions where competition might be less intense.

5. Other Roles to Consider

• If IB doesn’t work out immediately, roles in Big 4 TAS, corporate finance, or boutique asset management can position you well for lateraling into IB.

Start now, stay consistent, and don’t lose hope—many have successfully broken into IB with late starts!

Sources: Too early?, Where do the IBD Rejects go?, Is it too late to start networking in April?, Is it too late to start networking/applying to IB 2020? Which roles/banks are still recruiting, Boutique IB is a lie -- Experience Rant