How to find the right PE mentor in London without word getting out?
Hi All!
I’m currently an IB associate at a London-based BB and after a few years in IB, I’m giving serious thought to my next steps. That said, I must admit that I’m somewhat uncertain about where to turn next.
I’ve never had a true career mentor—someone I can lean on for advice and perspective, someone who could share insights into their own career trajectories, regrets and good decisions they made along the way.
Recently, I’ve started preparing for potential PE interviews, though I don’t have anyone in my network who could provide insight into the culture and dynamics within various PE firms or advise which firms I’d be a good fit at and which to avoid.
I must admit that I’m a bit hesitant to reach out via LinkedIn for mentorship, as I’m worried about colleagues potentially discovering my intentions before I’m ready to make any informed decisions. I graduated from a target university with a wide alumni network in PE, but I’m tentative to get in touch as some of these individuals might know several of my colleagues, who share the same academic background.
Any advice, anecdotes or guidance on how to find a mentor outside of the immediate work environment, would mean a lot to me.
I wouldn't be worried about word leaking purely from outreach / networking. Happens all the time. Most of my friends at my BB in London had some network across the street either from existing relationships, meeting on projects, or just networking. Even if the people you meet know someone at your firm, they're familiar with the game and won't gossip that you reached out from a networking perspective (different if you're reaching out specifically for a job to a senior person who may have a relationship with your MD).
In terms of how, as you suggest, leverage school alum, bank alum, people you've met on projects. If you get rejected from a process you can reach out to the people you interviewed with. Most people will be happy to take a call or coffee if they have time and share perspectives.
Thank you for your response! I do understand that networking is a common and necessary part of the industry, but in my experience, some people aren’t as professional or discreet as one might hope. I’ve seen firsthand how information can leak – sometimes unintentionally, but other times with a more malicious intent which has naturally made me rather cautious.
Thank you again for your insights!
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