Advice for Networking Calls for SA Recruiting

This forum was the sole reason I was able to land a role in IB when I recruited for SA 2021 and since receiving my FT offer, I wanted to offer some advice for networking as it is the most important aspect of recruiting in my opinion. 

1. Reach out early (Jan/Feb) but only if you are polished enough. 

• You have an advantage in getting a response when you are 1/5 per week than when you are 1/10+ per week.
• But this only works in you advantage if you are polished and know your behaviorals/what you want to ask, or else you could get dinged early on.
  • For example, kid reached out from my non/semi target school with amazing resume (4.0, multiple PE internships, leadership at the right club, etc) but was very awkward and had a hard time connecting. This is my mind is a ding for EQ.

2. Reach out to alumni first and always end the conversation with "It was great speaking with you, is there anyone else you recommend I speak to?"

• Bankers know that what you are really asking is do you like me enough to refer me to another person on your team who can then vet me again. 

3. Try and get in contact with the staffers. This was something that I found REALLY helpful for the BB's as staffers were the one closest to HR and closest to hiring decisions. 

4. Keep in touch with whoever you speak to! Keeping a connection warm is extremely important as bankers arent going to remember some random kid they spoke to 3 months ago, but rather the kid who they have been talking with every month, giving advice or even mock interviews too. 

5. And most importantly, be a likable & social person with a solid or unique story. Good luck!

Happy to answer any questions that I can answer!