2028 Recruitment

To maximize your chances for UMM IB recruiting, here's what you need to know based on the most helpful WSO content:

Referrals/Connections Per Firm

• Multiple Contacts Per Firm: Aim to have multiple connections at each target firm. Ideally, you should have at least 2-3 strong connections per firm. This increases your chances of someone advocating for you during the recruiting process.
• Alumni First: Start with alumni from your school, as they are more likely to respond positively. Use LinkedIn and your school’s alumni database to identify them.
• Ask for Referrals: Always end your networking calls by asking, “Is there anyone else you recommend I speak to?” This helps you expand your network within the firm.

Phone Calls Per Person

• One Initial Call: Typically, one 20-40 minute phone call is standard for an initial conversation. Use this time to ask about their experience, the firm, and advice for breaking in.
• Follow-Up Calls: After the initial call, plan for 1-2 follow-up calls over the next few months to keep the connection warm. Update them with your progress (e.g., new internships, technical prep) and express continued interest in the firm.

Additional Advice for Recruiting

1. Treat Networking Calls Like Interviews: Bankers may test your technical knowledge during calls, so always be prepared. Treat every call as if it’s a first-round interview.
2. Keep in Touch: Maintain relationships by following up every 3-4 months with updates or to schedule casual catch-up calls.
3. Coffee Meetings: If you’re near a financial hub like NYC, try to set up in-person coffee chats after your initial calls. Wait about a month after the first call before suggesting this.
4. Start with Lower-Priority Firms: Use your first 5-10 calls to practice with firms you’re less interested in. This helps you refine your approach before reaching out to top targets.
5. Behavioral Prep: Since you’re already strong on technicals, focus on perfecting your behavioral answers. Be ready to discuss your internships, leadership experiences, and why you’re targeting UMM IB.

By building a robust network and maintaining consistent communication, you’ll position yourself well for recruiting. Keep pushing forward, and don’t let rejections discourage you—persistence is key!

Sources: Non-Target Recruiting Guide Part I: Resume and Networking, Advice for Networking Calls for SA Recruiting, Want to get me on the phone? Here's how - a networking overview., https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/job-search/my-2-cents-on-sa-recruiting-from-a-non-target-background?customgpt=1, Want to get me on the phone? Here's how - a networking overview.