Ask Recruiters about Comp?

Currently a 2nd year Associate in LMM PE, and feel overworked and underpaid. I get emails from recruiters all the time about lateral opportunities in the same city (LCOL) and similar sized funds. Is appropriate to reach out to these recruiters for a general "networking call" to try to get a sense of market comp for my city and fund size? Has anyone done this? Obviously if we connect on a specific opportunity it would be inappropriate to ask about comp, but my feeling is if it is just a general intro it may be better. 

6 Comments
 

This is only my experience so YMMV, but when I was recruiting via headhunters I didn't ask about comp expectations until we were more seriously working together. That said, if you're serious about changing roles if the comp is better, then I think its fine to bring that up in your discussion to get a sense of what's market in your area as that will help the headhunter determine if they're even able to help you.

 

You are overthinking it - besides, many publications put out comp. Also, I don't think it is inappropriate to ask. Next time you get hit up for a role, ask them what is the fund's budgeted comp range. Don't throw a number first. If pressed, say I'm not prepared to throw a number out and will need to consider several factors before doing so. It would be easier for me to provide feedback on the range you are working with.

 

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