Slow Period in P/E

Is there an industry standard 'slow period' (e.g. Jan/Feb) for PE or is it highly dependent on a particular firms' deal status.

The reason I ask is I wanted to attempt to get my foot in the door w/ a PE company (local South Florida MM firm(s)) by asking to do an unpaid internship before I head to B-School next summer. I am thinking it may be more advantageous (if at all) to do so during a slow period for them. Obvious trade-offs there... how much value for either of us... how much would I really learn in a slow period but would not be in the way either...

I appreciate the insight.

9 Comments
 

Summer is always slow in PE and at a lot of banks because MDs/partners are vacationing in the Hamptons (for those that work in NYC), taking Fridays off, etc., etc. I don't know much about recruiting but it's probably easier to get an internship during a busier period unless you're a student.

Just keep your nose to the grindstone and recruiting might be easier in the fall/winter. Hiring needs aren't great right now, but if you're willing to work for free, it might not be too difficult. Good luck.

 
Best Response

Summer in general but particularly August. Investment banks know that this is prime vacation time and as a result, not many new deals go to market in July or August. If they do, usually the deadline for the next step in the process is pushed back by 2-3 weeks to allow groups adequate time to review the materials.

If a deal is near closing as you enter into the summer -- tough luck you gotta work through it.

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