How to Recruit for Distressed/Special Sits Funds

Hi WSO. I'm currently a first-year analyst working at what you would consider a "second-tier" fixed income focused asset manager (aka not Blackrock, PIMCO, PGIM, but still a big name). I want to transition into distressed debt/special situations or even direct/mezz lending, but curious about how to approach the recruiting process as it is not as formalized as in PE. A few internal/external headhunters have connected/reached out on LinkedIn, more likely due to my target school alma mater than my firm/title. Should I be more proactive in messaging them first about opportunities? How do I maximize my chances of being searched by the right people? And to what extent does networking with alumni help?

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