Networking with Partners

Networking or building a network with senior guys (bankers, consultants) is never a bad thing. If you really have a solid relationship with a few of these people and you have been exchanging emails/calls for the past several weeks or months, then you can definitely start to inquire into opportunities - especially at this time (nearing September/fall recruiting). I wouldn't outright ask for a job - that would be foolish, unless we are talking about them being one of your parents, or a brother, etc. You can, however, ask them some questions about opportunities - what are they looking for in their SAs, what's the process (meaning resume drop, interview schedule, timing), what are the most effective channels for getting your resume into the right hands - usually the online drop box isn't great - is there someone to interview. I mean you don't want to rapid fire these questions at your contacts, but this should give you an idea of how to play it. If they really like you and they haven't spoken to you about this already, then you've definitely got to make a move - otherwise you might find that by the time you inquire, first rounds are done already.

Regarding effectiveness, the broader your network within a firm, in general, and the more senior it reaches, in general, the better your chances begin to look. Essentially, the interview is designed to make sure you are who you say you are on paper/an intelligent and capable person, and that you fit with the firm. If you have the support of several team members, then you are probably pretty capable and you fit with at least a few of the team member already - essentially, you've begun answering their questions for them, so the interview should follow to confirm. It's a simplistic way to look at it, but it is often a simple (at some points, buddy-system) process.

IBanker www.BankonBanking.com [email protected] Articles, News, Advice and More Break Into Investment Banking