Networked with IB professional at BB FIG group. Wtf do I even do.

He responded to my note in a LinkedIn request. He's available for a call.

It seems we're both from non-targets. I've been on calls with bankers before at regional boutiques, but nothing quite like this. How should I approach it?

Obviously, I will schedule the call. But I got light-headed when I saw his response. I'm poor as shit and this is my dream job. Finger fookin' shakin' as I type this. This is the furthest I've ever been tbh.

Any and all advice would be greatly appreciated.

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I'm in  the same boat with you, networking and recruiting for FT rn. I think my calls have been going okay so far, steal my  questions. Of course, you can rephrase these based on how you speak or how professional you'll be with the person you're talking to.

Intro:

"Hey IB Guy, this is Name, how are you doing?  How was your week so far?"

"Thank you taking the time today to call. I want to put some structure into the call, would it be okay  if I start with a quick intro, learn about your background, and go into some questions?"

Go through your "tell me about yourself" answer; talk about your journey and what got you interested in finance.

Be sure to prepare a "why IB" and "why group" answer. You don't really need to prep technicals for networking calls but it doesn't hurt .

For your last sentence: "I'm interested in pursuing a career in finance and investment banking, and I wanted to hear more about how you got to where you are today and more about your background."

Key advice: LISTEN TO WHAT THEY SAY

Go with the flow and ask questions based on what they say. Don't ask questions for the sake of asking questions.

Connect with the fact that you're both went to non-target schools.

Some questions I'd recommend you always ask:

"I’m sure you had a couple of offers, what made you want to choose bank?"

"What made you want to choose the group you’re in?"

"What’s some advice you could give that helped you?"

"Is it unreasonable if you could put me in touch with another colleague at your firm to learn more?"

Phrases to say at the end of the call:

"Well I see we are wrapping up on time,  [LAST QUESTION]"

"Awesome, awesome, great, well again, thank you so much for taking the time today, and I’d love to stay in touch on my recruiting journey."

"Great awesome, I’ll keep you updated."

"Have a great rest of your week! Bye"

"I’d love to stay in touch and be on your radar when something comes up now and then."

SEND A THANK YOU EMAIL WITHIN THAT DAY YOU SCHEDULED THE CALL. Send them an update every couple of months or whenever you get a big update on recruiting.

I've been using this framework so far,  hopefully it helps. Again, mold the questions to how the conversation is going, don't be so rigid and try to stick to the formula. Keep us updated and let us know how it goes!

 

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