When to start networking for FT ‘25
I landed an IB internship for summer 2024 at a large, MM bank. I started recruiting late (march) and I’m glad I got anything coming from a non-target (1 person did IB this summer) and being non-diverse. I am definitely looking to lateral to a BB/EB for FT and was wondering what that process is like and how early I should start reaching out to network. I have good connections at a handful of BB/EB banks but definitely looking to expand my horizons. Should I wait until I have actually started my IB SA or should I go ahead and start networking soon. I know FT recruiting is tough and any and all advice is appreciated.
Week 3ish of your internship. It comes off as in bad taste (like you're obviously looking to upgrade banks, and not giving your SA a chance) if you email before you even start.
If you want to save time, can tee these up in the weeks before your internship starts... just schedule send through weeks 3/4/5. Would save some time on email writing, and return offers are a must so you have to prioritize that over recruiting. But I would not be doing fulsome networking before you even start.