Hey guys,
I'm currently a rising senior looking to start preparing for FT recruitment. For context, I attend a semi/non-target, worked at a boutique investment bank last spring, am currently an intern at a LMM PE fund, and will be a summer analyst at an EB in a few months. While I initially intended to return (if offered) after my SA stint, my experience in PE has drawn me towards recruiting full time for analyst positions. That said, my university unfortunately has almost no network within MF / UMM PE and few resources to guide me through the recruiting process. I'd appreciate any info surrounding my initial questions:
1. What does timing look like?
2. Regarding my lack of a network, how large of a part does networking play in the recruitment process? Can I use my EB network during / after my internship, or is that generally looked down upon?
3. If recruitment is during the summer, how should I balance interviewing with work? (I've been told by some full time analysts that the shop is pretty sweaty)
Thanks for your time! Any helpful information not within the scope of those three questions would also be much appreciated.
Feel free to PM, even if it's for advice from me regarding internship / SA search.
Ahoy there! It sounds like you're gearing up for an exciting journey into the world of Private Equity (PE) recruiting. Based on the most helpful WSO content and insights from the WSO Academy, let's dive into your questions and chart a course for your FT PE analyst recruiting adventure in 2025.
1. What does timing look like?
The PE recruiting timeline has been known to be quite aggressive and often begins earlier than many expect. Historically, the process has started as early as the summer for positions starting the following year. However, it's crucial to stay informed about the current trends as this can vary year by year. Given your timeline for 2025, it would be wise to start preparing and networking at least a year in advance. Keep an eye on the WSO forums for any updates or changes in the recruiting timeline.
2. Regarding my lack of a network, how large of a part does networking play in the recruitment process?
Networking is a critical component of the PE recruiting process, especially coming from a semi/non-target school. Your experience at a boutique investment bank and a LMM PE fund, coupled with your upcoming summer analyst position at an EB, provides a solid foundation to build your network. Leveraging your EB network during or after your internship is not only acceptable but recommended. It's all about how you approach it – be respectful, express genuine interest, and seek advice rather than directly asking for a job.
3. If recruitment is during the summer, how should I balance interviewing with work?
Balancing interviewing with a demanding summer analyst role can be challenging but not impossible. Here are a few tips: - Prioritize and manage your time effectively: Use your free time wisely, whether it's early mornings, late evenings, or weekends. - Communicate transparently with your interviewers: Many will understand the demands of your current role and may offer flexibility in scheduling interviews. - Seek advice from current analysts: They've been through it and can offer valuable insights on managing the workload and interview prep.
Additional Tips:
Remember, the journey to landing a FT PE analyst position is a marathon, not a sprint. Utilize resources like WSO, leverage your network, and stay persistent. Best of luck, and feel free to reach out on the forums for more advice or to share your experiences!
Sources: 2019 FT Analyst Recruiting Timeline, Q&A: Incoming IB analyst – international student, survived FT recruiting twice…, PE Recruiting Timeframe and Recommendations, 2019 FT Analyst Recruiting Timeline
They almost solely hire from SA class. FT hires are typically ad hoc.
If a firm is hiring for a FT spot, it will be middle/end of summer (aside from WP), once they have an idea of what their SA looks like. The #1 question they will ask is if you got the return offer at your EB, so that should be priority #1. Additionally, the lateral market is virtually non-existent right now.
Some PE firms (more on the MM/UMM) side only recruit full-time, no SA. From what I’ve seen the bank you come from matters more than school. I’d reach out to a few analysts/associates at those shops, should be all the networking you need. I’d second the point of focusing on getting a return.
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