Senior Associate Lateral Networking with Other PE Firms

Given the difficult headhunter environment, would it be worth it to reach out directly to potential PE firms (partner or VP-level?) to network and subtly inquire if they are looking for Senior Associate hires? Current firm is 3 and out and only takes VPs from business school, so it has nothing to do with underperformance.

What would be a good way to express this in a natural way without coming across as too direct?

Targeting lower middle market firms so hopefully they are less dependent on recruiters/have more flexibility to hire outside of the recruiter track if the opportunity presents itself. 

Interested to hear thoughts. Thanks!

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