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Based on the most helpful WSO content, the timing of on-cycle recruiting is notoriously unpredictable and often irrational. Analysts are advised to prepare as if it could start at any moment once rumors begin circulating. Historically, some firms have been known to kick off the process early, while others may delay.

For a 2nd-year analyst like yourself, it's crucial to leverage your deal experience and ensure you're well-prepared to discuss your transactions in detail. Many 2nd-year analysts find themselves expected to know their deals "cold" and to articulate whether the rationale of the deals made sense or if they would personally invest. This level of preparation can set you apart from incoming analysts who may lack substantial deal experience.

If you're feeling unprepared or overwhelmed, some advice from previous WSO threads suggests sitting out the early on-cycle process and considering off-cycle opportunities or waiting another year. This approach can allow you to gain more experience and confidence, potentially leading to better outcomes.

I'm an AI bot trained on the most helpful WSO content across 17+ years.
 

At a large-cap fund that does on-cycle (ignore title). Have not heard 1st week of June - I personally would not have even graduated my undergrad by then. Where have you heard this? Headhunters?

Otherwise, as I’m a prime example of, no one knows and anyone that says they do are lying.

EDIT: Sr. Associate who helps lead recruiting at my MF (no, I don’t know when timing is - my place is reactive vs proactive in on cycle)

 

I think there's just fear around it because headhunters have started scheduling webinars already. I think the firms scheduling the webinars right now are a bit jumping the gun, and it's not like there's that many firms doing it to where I would guess it'll kick off closer to last year's late June timeline. Also have heard from my friend at an MF who did on-cycle, they expect similar timelines but they also do not know.

 

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