When to start networking? (SA 26)

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some insights on when to start networking for IB recruitment:

1. Timing of Networking:

   • Week 3ish of Your Internship: It's generally advised to start networking around the third week of your internship. Starting too early can come off as in bad taste, as it may seem like you're looking to upgrade banks without giving your current SA a chance.
   • Before Internship Starts: You can prepare your networking emails before your internship starts and schedule them to send during weeks 3/4/5. This approach saves time and ensures you're not neglecting your return offer.

2. Early Networking:

   • Spring of Junior Year: For some, networking started in the spring of their junior year through organized recruiting/networking events. This helped in developing further networks at the firms.
   • Freshman Year: Starting as early as freshman year can be beneficial. Building relationships over time and familiarizing yourself with technicals can give you a significant advantage.

3. Polished Approach:

   • Reach Out Early (Jan/Feb): If you are polished enough, reaching out early can give you an advantage in getting responses. However, ensure you know your behaviorals and what you want to ask.

4. Cultivating Relationships:

   • 8+ Months to a Year: Cultivating relationships over a longer period (8+ months to a year) can make people more willing to push your resume. Start cold emailing places for your freshman year summer internship, beginning with local no-name boutique IB places.

5. Avoiding Counterproductive Networking:

   • After First Few Weeks of SA: Starting networking too early before your SA can be counterproductive. It is advised to start after at least the first few weeks of your SA to avoid giving the impression that you're not giving your current group a chance.

In summary, while there are mixed opinions, a balanced approach would be to start preparing and scheduling your networking emails before your internship begins, but only send them out around the third week of your internship. Additionally, building relationships early and maintaining them over time can be highly beneficial.

Sources: Networking and timeline for 2023 FT IBD recruiting, When to start networking for FT ‘25, Networking and timeline for 2023 FT IBD recruiting, Non-Target Recruiting Guide Part I: Resume and Networking, Simplified Guide to Breaking in as Non-Target (EASIER THAN YOU THINK)