Full Time Recruitment

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here’s a breakdown of actionable advice for your situation:

1. Where to Look for Job Postings

• Specific Job Boards: Check out platforms like https://www.efinancialcareers.com</a">eFinancialCareers, https://www.glassdoor.com/Job/jobs.htm</a">Glassdoor, and http://www.hrg.net</a">HRG.net. These are frequently recommended for trading and finance roles.
• Firms with Open Positions: Historically, firms like Stephens, FT Partners, Guggenheim, Brown Gibbons Lang, Mizuho, and Duff & Phelps often have openings for full-time analysts. Satellite offices of investment banks in less competitive locations may also have opportunities.
• Networking: Leverage alumni networks and LinkedIn to connect with professionals in trading or structuring roles. Networking can uncover hidden opportunities that aren’t posted publicly.

2. How Much of the Process You Missed

• Many banks recruit full-time analysts from their summer intern pool, so the majority of positions may already be filled. However, some banks keep positions open throughout the year, especially for specific needs or in less saturated locations. For example, Raymond James has been known to post openings as late as February.

3. Updating List of Banks

• Regularly monitor job boards and career pages of banks. While this can be tedious, it’s necessary. Additionally, keep an eye on WSO forums and threads, as users often share updates about firms still recruiting.

4. Exploring Tangential Roles

• If staying in markets is your priority, consider roles in risk management, quantitative research, or strategy teams within trading desks. These roles can provide a pathway back to trading or structuring in the future.
• Smaller proprietary trading firms or market-making firms (e.g., Belvedere Trading, Sunrise Futures, Headlands Tech) might also be worth exploring. These firms often value technical skills and a passion for markets over a perfect GPA.

5. Addressing the GPA Concern

• A 3.5 GPA is not a dealbreaker, especially with your strong internships and target school background. However, be prepared to address it in interviews by emphasizing your practical experience, technical skills, and passion for markets.

6. Additional Resources

• Consider WSO’s Financial Modeling Resources and Interview Prep Guides to sharpen your technical skills and stand out in interviews.
• Attend virtual bootcamps like the Private Equity Interview 1-Day Bootcamp or Financial Modeling & Valuation Bootcamp to further enhance your profile.

By staying persistent, leveraging your network, and exploring adjacent roles, you can navigate this challenging recruiting cycle and secure a position in markets.

Sources: Firms Still Recruiting for 2020 Full-Time Analysts, Re-recruiting for full time senior year, I'm currently an equity derivatives/vol trader: Q&A!, Seeking a trading job in Toronto, I'm currently an equity derivatives/vol trader: Q&A!