What Do You Like To See When Students Reach Out to You?
I'm a sophomore at an a Non-Target and really struggling to get any finance related internship offers for this summer. I got a decent GPA (3.68) and am fairly involved in clubs but am trash at networking.
What do you like to see when a students reach out to you or what types of students don't come off as a filthy offer whore?
For networking, refer to networking guides from WSO and M&I. I used to be deeply apprehensive to networking (even though, ironically, I like to meet new people) but I came to realize how crucial it was going to be for me to break into IB from a nontarget.
As for your question, I actually don't get too many networking emails these days but for the few I receive, I like to see that someone did more than the bare minimum in putting together a message. Even if it's a template email, as long you can update the details to my current role and/or school, that's good enough to me.
I'm curious what other people will chime in with as responses to your question.
The thread copied into this one seems very complex but perhaps that's for IB. I personally like a few things but done right:
Ask questions about the firm that truly make you seem interested. An example can be "I've noticed you work mainly in one industry vertical and stick with that - is there a chance for collaboration or does it ever happen between verticals?". MUCH better than "So what type of consulting do you do?". It says it on the website.
Come with an understanding of the area you want to apply to or what you would want to get out of it. I'm in HC consulting and if someone came to me with some knowledge/curiosity of medical devices (despite us not doing a tonne of work there) I would find them truly interested and already with an idea of their preferences. Even if it's a generalist role, have 2-3 preferred industries and reasons why ready to ask questions about. But be smart; if you ask a person at OC&C how their HC practice works, you're an idiot.
Be ready to answer questions intelligently. Generally people are super friendly at coffees or networking events but treat them like a pre-interview more than a chilled hang out with a friend. A good impression can lead to a referral even after 1 meeting. Please don't come wanting only a referral; that's the recruitment equivalent of a gold digger and you'll never get it. Also, do not come with a printed version of your CV ready to go. I'm not a physical version of the online application portal. If the chat goes well, the person will invite you to send it over personally so they forward it to HR.
A nice thank you after. Even dropping 1 line via LinkedIn. It shows manners, respect and is a nice gesture. You're more likely to be remembered that way than if I you go dark until recruitment starts. Ah, and if it's for coffee ALWAYS offer to pay. Unless the person is rude they'll end up paying but offering to do so is seen as polite.