What to do about networking?
I'm at a target, top investment club, high gpa, strong 2025 gig w/ known buyside name.
i started networking mid-nov. I got introduced to finance late.
The issue is that after thanksgiving, my response rate is egregious. The only way i can get people to respond is to hound their friends or smthn like that.
I have only taken 3 calls and sent out 74 emails. these r personalized emails to alum who i try to show some connection w. I have done a total of 11 prior.
I guess i could send more per day but this doesn't seem scalable? running out of alumni.
WTH do i do? I know its hard to get by screens w/o networking -- did i rly screw up starting mid nov?
Based on the most helpful WSO content, here’s what you can do to improve your networking strategy:
Expand Beyond Alumni: While alumni are a great starting point, you’re likely running out of them because your pool is limited. Start reaching out to professionals who share other commonalities with you (e.g., similar interests, clubs, or even geographic ties). For example, if you’re in a skiing club, target professionals who share that interest.
Optimize Your Timing: Timing matters. According to WSO threads, Monday mornings and Fridays are optimal times to send emails, as professionals are often less busy and more likely to respond.
Follow Up Strategically: A lack of response doesn’t mean disinterest. Follow up with those who haven’t responded after about a week. Keep it polite and professional, and remind them of your initial email.
Diversify Your Outreach: Don’t just rely on emails. If you’ve had prior interactions with someone, consider sending a LinkedIn message or even a text (if appropriate). This can help you stand out.
Increase Volume Without Sacrificing Quality: While 74 emails is a good start, you may need to increase your outreach. Aim for a balance between personalization and efficiency. Use templates that you can tweak for each recipient to save time.
Leverage Informational Interviews: Even if someone can’t directly help you, an informational interview can lead to referrals. Many WSO users have found success by asking for advice rather than outright favors.
Be Persistent but Respectful: Networking is a numbers game. A 10% response rate is typical, so don’t get discouraged. Keep reaching out, but always remain respectful of people’s time.
Start Building Relationships Early: While starting in mid-November isn’t ideal, it’s not the end of the world. Use this as a lesson to begin networking earlier in the future. Building relationships takes time, so the earlier you start, the better.
Thank and Update Contacts: After any call or meeting, send a thank-you email. Keep your contacts updated on your progress—it helps maintain the relationship and keeps you on their radar.
Don’t Panic: You haven’t screwed up. Many people have successfully networked their way into opportunities even with late starts. Focus on what you can control now—consistent outreach, follow-ups, and leveraging every connection you make.
For more detailed tips, check out WSO’s networking guides like https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/job-search/networking-101-8-tips-…</a">Networking 101 – 8 tips from a “non-target” school student or https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/job-search/13-networking-tips-and…</a">13 Networking Tips and Tricks.
Sources: Networking 101 – 8 tips from a “non-target” school student, Networking 101 – 8 tips from a “non-target” school student, The Best Networking, Cold Calling and Cold Emailing Posts on WSO, 13 Networking Tips and Tricks, 10 Friendly Reminders While Networking for SA Programs (from a BB Analyst Perspective)
bump
People are busy with everyone trying to reach them. Just gotta keep grinding and eventually the numbers will count
yeah its just rough / hard to stay motivated. i spent hours yesterday + today sending out as many personalized emails w/o overlapping groups as i can but still crickets...
Follow up with alumni after a week. Your response rate at a target seems very low. I started around the same time as you but got way more calls. Check your email and see if it's easy to read.
i use the format given from ppl w/ offers in my club.
do you think i should just try and get responses from MM in non NYC/SF locations? they respond much more.
just seems like i cant get any BB/EB banker to respond.
I don't think you should use the same email template. Make your own. Multiple people probably use the same template, and bankers assumed you copied/pasted the email. Do definitely look into places like Chicago, Houston, and Boston. I had no issues getting calls from New York or San Francisco. By the way, I go to a target (FYI).
what type of target do u go to. There may be a slight difference between say Georgetown vs Harvard
think columbia / dartmouth / duke / uchicago
If its uchicago, checks out
alumni network sucks tbh, no loyalty among clubs and terrible response rates all around
Networking or job hunting from the Thanksgiving week until Jan 2 is very difficult. Other parts of the year may yield better results.
So if you don’t grind IB since the very beginning of ur second year of college your done for?
accelerating to early Jan is gonna fuck these banks
Nothing wrong with networking after apps come out
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