Recruiting / Networking Question

Hey Everyone,

I'm an incoming sophomore at a non-target (but still top 30) school, and I've been emailing BB analysts and associates over the past week. I've had a few conversations, but I heard this myth that you need to talk to at least 3 analysts per firm to have a shot at an interview.

Most analysts I've spoken to said they don’t even have access to the talent platform or hiring software, and that it’s really the MDs who can pull you in for an interview. So now I’m wondering—should I stop networking with analysts and just focus on MDs, even though they're less likely to respond? Or should I keep reaching out to analysts and associates too?

Would love to hear your thoughts.

Thanks!

16 Comments
 

You can network with all positions, but probably analysts and associates the most. They definitely have a say in the hiring process.

Also what top 30 school is a non target?

 

True, but I feel like if you have Caltech/MIT on your resume, you can get into any bank you want (assuming you network and they like you).

The reason why these schools don't have many alumni in IB, is because they are extremely smart and are looking to do something in CS or engineering, which doesn't demand as much of a grind.

 

MDs definitely have most weight. However, most MDs appreciate / more eager to hop on a chat if you talked with analysts / associates.

Also, at some firms, analysts / associates are looking at HVs / resumes so it's definitely helpful there too, but they won't have power in giving you a "referral".

 

From my experience, AN / AS won't refer you to their MD unless it's a small firm as they lack political capital (unless they have the same alma mater). Usually, it's VPs that may refer you. As others have mentioned, quality is better than quantity. You never know who can help you get an interview. Analysts / Associates could help watch HVs / read resumes and MDs could help with referrals. You truly don't know who can help you so quality is better than quantity and it's important to network with all.

 

do you think associates at BBs like MS, and GS look at hirevues? i've always thought it's all HR. what makes you say analysts look at HVs?

 

Yes. I have friends at BBs that are analysts / associates and they mention that they primarily look at HVs. They've told me many stories about random things people do that are automatic dings or other things that people do that stand out.

 
Most Helpful

Quality over quantity any day of the week. Actually forming a connection and building rapport with 1 person is so much better than just having 3-5 mediocre calls with people at the bank. I'd go to bat for this one person I connected with, but would actively not pull resumes with others that had no idea what they were talking about or felt like they were literally reading a script. "What are the three most valuable things you have learned so far + three most important traits in an analyst + three biggest challenges you've overcome at your job"

Like damn neighbor I just started why is a nontarget making me interview in a networking call

 

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