Cold Networking Before PE Recruiting

I'm starting as a first year analyst at a mid-tier BB in one of the better industry coverage groups. Just graduated from a target with a good GPA in a non-finance major.

After my analyst stint I'm hoping to break into a MF / large cap fund, and wanted to hear your thoughts on cold networking with alumni / other contacts who are currently at some of these firms. I know it doesn't provide the same upside potential that IB networking does (guarantee an interview, etc), but I'm curious as to whether cold networking could potentially damage my PE recruiting chances before the headhunter process kicks off.

Though I've seen this topic discussed tangentially, there doesn't seem to be a consensus on the merits of PE cold networking the way there is for IB. All advice appreciated