Networking as a Post-Grad
Hey guys, I’m really unsure about an aspect of my networking strategy, and I’d like to run it by you all. Quick background: I’m pursuing IB analyst positions, been out of undergrad 1.5ish years, extreme nontarget, finance major. I’m far from financial hubs and have no FT finance experience. My internships are PWM + PE with modeling + currently interning in niche AM.
I’m not asking about job searching/cold calling. To be specific, I’m wondering how I should engage certain “warm” leads - they’re usually either bankers I track down through acquaintances, or bankers I notice were in the same fraternity (national, not chapter). These aren’t as “warm” as family/friend connections or even alumni.
In the past, I’ve reached out to request advice, usually leading to a phone conversation. On the phone, I ask how they got into banking (or African yacht leasing, etc.) and/or how they like it, ask what someone in my situation should do if they want to do IB, and that’s it. I’ve never hinted at opportunities, even indirectly, because my understanding is that’s usually a big turn off; I leave it up to them to initiate any sort of further help. One guy recently asked for and is now pushing my resume around; everyone else has offered kind advice, which I truly appreciate, but ideally I’d like to get reactions more like the former.
I avoid the informational interview method since I can't just shoot the breeze then follow up in the fall to ask about recruiting - is this wrong? Should I ask open ended background questions and shoot the breeze more, and focus less on advice/my situation?
I realize networking is an art, but what exactly should I be doing differently with these contacts? Ask for referrals? SBs for any input. Thanks for all your help, WSO. I'd be nowhere without this site.
swagon
very interested in the responses, im kind of in the same boat
It sounds like you have the right idea in general. I don't think it's a bad idea at all to say something along the lines of "thanks for your help, do you have anyone you could refer me to? Anyone i could speak with?" and that sort of stuff. Chances are, if they are taking your call, they know you want to get into the industry and aren't blind to the fact that your motivations are to get a job, not just make friends. If I get a call like that and have any real connections to people looking for employees, I'd possibly send the person's resume along or something like that if I thought they were worthwhile / a fit.
Just don't be pushy while getting to know someone or come off as needy. Networking obviously is an art, but it sounds like you understand that.
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