IB Group Placement 2020 Question ***

I had a similar experience at Wells Fargo where I was placed in a group for SA I did not want to be in (and who has probably the https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forums/a-warning-on-the-wells-fargo-sec…</a">shittiest group placement process you can read about here). My advice for you is:

1. Do not let anyone in the group you're interning know that you want to switch groups. Your #1 goal is getting a FT offer cause without one you'll be fucked for both FT recruiting and trying to move internally, and FT offers are usually determined by the group you're interning with. If they know that you aren't really interested in their group, that will fuck your odds of getting a return offer. And it's generally unheard of for SAs to intern in another group than the one they were originally placed in, your only bet is switching groups before starting FT.

2. Continue to network with people at other groups internally, as well as other banks throughout the summer. Within your bank I'd focus on speaking with alumni and any connections you made during the group placement process, and when speaking with them you can hint at your interest in their group and potentially exploring opportunities with them FT, but don't be too aggressive about it (and avoid shit talking your group). And at a lot of banks, moving groups SA -> FT can be pretty difficult/uncommon so it may be easier to just lateral to another bank FT, so continue networking with any contacts you made at other banks you might be interested in lateraling to.

3. The day you get your FT offer, you need to move quickly. That same day, I'd let all your contacts you've been networking know that "hey I got a return offer but I'm more interested in your group / bank." FT processes can move very quickly so you need to make moves ASAP so you'll be top of mind if any openings are available.