Non-traditional/Non-IBD engaging with headhunters (buyside/lateral)

Hello, fellow monkeys,

TL;DR - non-trad (non-IB) analyst curious about how to engage with headhunters (prep, tips, etc.)

I am currently at a T1 BB (GS/JPM) in the AWM division (weird mix of both AM and WM - we have books of clients and I regularly support 3-4 MDs who are advisors, but also regularly work with funds and institutional clients. Would be happy to elaborate for anyone curious).

Like many of you, I get a lot of messages/emails from headhunters for buy-side roles. I have been hesitant to connect with many of them as I have a non-traditional background (non-IBD) and worry that I may be wasting some of their time by responding/don't even have a shot anyway, but I am curious to engage with many of them, especially those who have mentioned general Investment Analyst/Family Office roles.

Though likely not worth much, my prior internship/professional experience is very diverse both in terms of roles and geographically (IBD, ER, and CF experiences across USA, South Asia, Mainland China, and Hong Kong - diplobrat so my network is very broad).

If for nothing else, I hope to connect with them so that (i) they keep me in mind for relevant roles, (ii) build practice/familiarity with this somewhat newer phase of professional advancement, and (iii) get a better idea of what they're expecting.

Therefore, I'm seeking advice as to how I can prepare for these 'introductory calls' (I know a lot of them are not just intro calls), as well as how to respond/what I can expect.
I realize part of my hesitancy comes from the fact that I'm not entirely sure where I see myself in the future (though in the nearer term, I think I see myself lateraling to a more traditional AM role), but in any case some guidance would be greatly appreciated. Cheers, and be well!

P.S apologies if this is not the appropriate forum. I don't use this site regularly so am unfamiliar with many of the spoken/unspoken rules.