How to reach out to Private Equity Headhunters

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some detailed steps and recommendations for reaching out to Private Equity headhunters, especially for off-cycle recruiting in growth equity and VC:

Steps to Reach Out to Headhunters

1. Identify Headhunters:

   • Make a list of relevant headhunters and their contact information. Some top headhunters include Ratio, Glocap, and CPI.

2. Initial Outreach:

   • Emailing the Firm Directly:
     • Most headhunters have team pages with emails available on their websites. Pick one of the associates and send them an email.
   • LinkedIn Messages:
     • You can also reach out via LinkedIn. This is particularly useful if you can't find their email addresses.

3. Crafting Your Message:

   • Email/LinkedIn Message Content:
     • Introduce yourself briefly.
     • Mention your current role and your interest in recruiting for growth equity and VC.
     • Express your desire to schedule an introductory call.
     • Attach your resume if emailing.

Sample Email/LinkedIn Message

Subject: Introduction and Interest in Growth Equity/VC Opportunities Hi [Headhunter's Name], I hope this message finds you well. My name is [Your Name], and I am an incoming analyst at [Your Firm]. I am very interested in exploring opportunities in growth equity and venture capital, and I would love to connect with you to discuss potential roles and how I can best position myself for these opportunities. Would you be available for a brief introductory call sometime next week? I have attached my resume for your reference. Thank you for your time and consideration. Best regards, [Your Name] [Your LinkedIn Profile] [Your Contact Information]

Recommendations for Headhunter Firms

• Major Headhunters:

  • Ratio
  • Glocap
  • CPI

• Additional Tips:

  • Keep an updated LinkedIn profile as some smaller headhunters might reach out through LinkedIn.
  • If you are in a niche IB group and headhunters haven't reached out to you, it's perfectly fine to email them introducing yourself and asking to meet in person.

Additional Advice

• Networking:

  • Start seeing if anyone in your network is connected to these firms and make a list of those people as well.
  • Networking with VC investors can also be beneficial, even if you just started.

• Persistence:

  • If you don't get a response, try reaching out to different associates or more senior headhunters.

By following these steps and using the sample message, you should be able to effectively get on the radar of major headhunting firms and increase your chances of landing a role in growth equity or VC.

Sources: My Path - MBA Banking Associate to PE, Basic Questions About PE Recruiting Answered, From Private Equity Associate to VP in Private Equity, 2022 Private Equity Headhunter Coverage, How to break into VC/Growth Equity?