How to leverage an Internship at a PE Portfolio company to Break into PE?

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some strategies to leverage your corporate development internship at a PE-backed company to break into private equity, especially when dealing with a remote setup:

1. Building Relationships Remotely with PE Owners:

   • Initiate Regular Updates: Schedule regular check-ins with the PE owners or your direct supervisor who has a relationship with them. Use these sessions to update them on your progress and seek feedback.
   • Engage Actively in Meetings: Whenever you're in meetings with the PE owners, make sure to actively participate. Ask insightful questions and offer thoughtful comments that demonstrate your understanding of the industry and the specific challenges the company faces.
   • Leverage LinkedIn: Connect with them on LinkedIn and engage with their posts. This can be a subtle way to keep your name in their minds without being too direct.

2. Leveraging the Internship:

   • Understand the Business and Its Value Drivers: Use your time to deeply understand how the business operates and how it generates value. This knowledge will be invaluable in discussions with the PE team and can make you stand out as someone who is genuinely interested and knowledgeable.
   • Project Involvement: Try to get involved in projects that are directly related to the areas of interest of the PE firm. This could be anything from a new market analysis to cost reduction strategies.
   • Request for a Mentor: If possible, ask if you can be assigned a mentor from among the PE firm’s team. This can provide you with a direct line to the firm and a valuable advocate in your corner.

3. Excelling in an Online Internship:

   • Proactive Communication: In a remote setting, you won’t have the benefit of 'running into' your colleagues. Hence, you need to be proactive in your communications. Regular emails summarizing your work, asking for feedback, or even sharing interesting industry articles can keep you visible.
   • Deliver on Deadlines: Always ensure you meet deadlines and deliver work that meets or exceeds expectations. In a remote internship, your output is your primary representation.
   • Technical Proficiency: Ensure you are comfortable with all the technical tools and software that the company uses. This can range from communication tools like Zoom and Slack to industry-specific software.

4. Tips for Remote Internships:

   • Create a Dedicated Workspace: Having a specific area in your home dedicated to work can help put you in a professional mindset.
   • Set a Routine: Treat your internship days like a regular workday. Dress appropriately, start on time, and take scheduled breaks to avoid burnout.
   • Network Internally: Reach out to other team members for virtual coffee chats. This can help you build a broader network within the company.

By following these strategies, you can maximize the impact of your internship and position yourself as a strong candidate for future opportunities in private equity.

Sources: How to break into Real Estate Private Equity (w/ 0 RE Knowledge), Q&A: VP in Private Equity (Growth Equity + LBO)...Post-MBA...Formerly IB Analyst, Doing a PE internship during my break before starting Banking FT?, Breaking into the buyside from a non-target - You can do it, https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/investment-banking/breaking-into-private-equity-from-banking?customgpt=1