Headhunters: Where to start?

Fresh out of an internship, trying to nail something down FT in finance but specifically IB, commercial banking, research, or corp dev. Pretty wide net. I'm BA/MA in Econ.

What headhunters have good reputations? I have no experience with them nor have any of them reached out. Do I just hit up HHs on LinkedIn?

2 Comments
 

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here’s how you can approach headhunters and maximize your chances:

  1. Understand the Role of Headhunters: Headhunters are typically more focused on experienced hires rather than fresh graduates or those just starting out. For entry-level roles like analyst positions, most firms rely on their in-house recruiting teams or direct applications. However, for roles in corporate development, research, or commercial banking, some headhunters may still be helpful.

  2. Targeted Outreach: Since you’re casting a wide net, it’s crucial to tailor your approach. Highlight a specific interest or field when reaching out to headhunters. As noted in WSO threads, if you express interest in "any finance position," headhunters may not prioritize your profile. Be clear about your goals.

  3. Recommended Headhunters:

    • For generalist private equity or corporate development, firms like Amity, Bellcast, CPI, Dynamics, McKibben, and Oxbridge have been recommended.
    • For real estate private equity, Bachrach, Bellcast, and Sousou are noted.
    • For middle-market connections, Glocap has been mentioned as a good option.
  4. Networking on LinkedIn: If headhunters haven’t reached out to you yet, take the initiative. Search for recruiters specializing in finance or investment banking on LinkedIn. Send personalized messages explaining your background (BA/MA in Econ, internship experience) and your interest in specific roles.

  5. Leverage Alumni Networks: Reach out to alumni from your university who are in finance. They may have connections with headhunters or can provide referrals, which can be more effective than cold outreach.

  6. Direct Applications: While headhunters can be helpful, don’t underestimate the power of applying directly to firms, especially for entry-level roles. Many big funds and banks do review online applications.

  7. Be Proactive: If you’re not getting responses, follow up politely. Persistence often pays off in this process.

Remember, networking and direct applications are often more effective for fresh graduates, but headhunters can still be a valuable resource if approached strategically.

Sources: Best Headhunting Shops ?, A Guide for Switching From Commercial Banking to Investment Banking, Law to Investment Banking (One Monkey's How-To Guide)

I'm an AI bot trained on the most helpful WSO content across 17+ years.
 
Most Helpful

Soluta et quo nihil. Rem sed qui quae et quae voluptatem sed unde. Dignissimos porro dolorum dolores excepturi. Sit est recusandae ut ut amet.

Amet vitae consequatur cumque qui id natus ut. Voluptas ducimus et minus commodi sed omnis voluptatibus. Consequuntur quia dolores quibusdam facere sit. Veniam necessitatibus aspernatur labore ad voluptates quas ea. Et autem quisquam ipsa.

Velit est neque nihil dolores sit quibusdam vitae. Officia quo est optio similique ea nam. Quae porro qui voluptatum qui beatae illum dolorem aut.

Esse dolorum dolorem nesciunt repellendus et voluptates sint. Temporibus natus exercitationem laborum est. Libero debitis molestiae architecto quia eum officia minus. Ullam quis distinctio harum qui eius.

Career Advancement Opportunities

June 2026 Investment Banking

  • Evercore 01 99.4%
  • Moelis & Company 01 98.8%
  • JPMorgan 01 98.2%
  • Guggenheim Partners 01 97.7%
  • Morgan Stanley 07 97.1%

Overall Employee Satisfaction

June 2026 Investment Banking

  • Moelis & Company No 99.4%
  • Morgan Stanley 01 98.8%
  • Evercore 01 98.2%
  • BMO Capital Markets 12 97.6%
  • Banco Santander 01 97.1%

Professional Growth Opportunities

June 2026 Investment Banking

  • Moelis & Company No 99.4%
  • Evercore No 98.8%
  • Morgan Stanley 05 98.2%
  • JPMorgan No 97.7%
  • BMO Capital Markets 12 97.1%

Total Avg Compensation

June 2026 Investment Banking

  • Vice President (14) $434
  • Associates (43) $259
  • 3rd+ Year Analyst (8) $210
  • 2nd Year Analyst (22) $179
  • Intern/Summer Associate (13) $156
  • 1st Year Analyst (75) $151
  • Intern/Summer Analyst (66) $101
notes
16 IB Interviews Notes

“... there’s no excuse to not take advantage of the resources out there available to you. Best value for your $ are the...”

Leaderboard

1
redever's picture
redever
99.2
2
kanon's picture
kanon
99.0
3
BankonBanking's picture
BankonBanking
99.0
4
Secyh62's picture
Secyh62
99.0
5
DrApeman's picture
DrApeman
98.9
6
Betsy Massar's picture
Betsy Massar
98.9
7
GameTheory's picture
GameTheory
98.9
8
dosk17's picture
dosk17
98.9
9
CompBanker's picture
CompBanker
98.9
10
Jamoldo's picture
Jamoldo
98.8
success
From 10 rejections to 1 dream investment banking internship

“... I believe it was the single biggest reason why I ended up with an offer...”