Can I ask a Megafund client to coffee?

As PE recruiting season starts ramping up, I'm looking to use as many opportunities as I can to get in the door. HH are great, but I would like to be proactive and explore other options such as networking/submitting resumes directly to increase my chances. Last year i worked on a deal involving a megafund client, i developed a daily/weekly interaction with the associate at the fund throughout the deal. The deal closed. I'm very interested in working at said firm. Thoughts on the following? 1- Is it appropriate to use this contact for recruiting given they are a client? 2 - if so, how can I approach? (directly ask for consideration vs. just picking his/her brain?, email vs. call vs. in person?) 3 - What type of questions can I ask? should I give him/her my resume?

Thanks for the advice

3 Comments
 

I am not the most experienced person in this regard, but I would assume that asking for an informational interview would be the best step to get the ball rolling. The associate will know what you really want anyhow.

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Best Response

1 - Absolutely, you should do it. I wouldn't ask a partner or principal out, but an associate or VP should be fine to ask. I have had analysts working a deal with me ask if we're hiring and I've actually brought a couple guys who I enjoyed working with in for interviews. 2 - I think if you have a good relationship with them and they like you, you don't need to go through the hassle of picking anyone's brain as a way in. You can send an e-mail, attach your resume and directly ask for consideration. If you actually do have questions (which it seems you don't based on your asking people for question suggestions), shoot an e-mail, say you're interested in pursuing a career in PE and would love meet for lunch or drinks to gain his perspective and advice. No matter what you choose to do, e-mail first, don't call or ask in person. 3 - If you don't have questions, then like i said, just ask directly for consideration. If you do have questions, you should ask the questions you have (vs. asking here for people to provide you with questions). Just be honest. If they like you and they're hiring, they will give you a shot.

 

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