Turning School into Target

To improve pipelines and turn your school into a stronger target for top firms like Bank of America, Citi, GS, and larger asset managers like Blackstone (BX), here are some actionable strategies based on the most helpful WSO content:

1. Start an Investment Banking Club (or Strengthen Existing Ones)

• Open Membership: Make the club accessible to all students, but ensure there’s a rigorous training program to prepare members for IB recruiting.
• Workshops and Training: Offer resume reviews, mock interviews, and technical/behavioral prep sessions. Partner with alumni or professionals to lead these sessions.
• Case Competitions: Organize case competitions to simulate real-world IB scenarios. This not only builds skills but also attracts attention from firms.
• Networking Events: Host events with alumni and professionals from BBs and top asset managers. Build relationships with these firms to encourage them to recruit from your school.

2. Leverage Alumni Networks

• Reconnect with Alumni: Reach out to alumni who are currently at BBs or top asset managers. Encourage them to advocate for your school during recruiting cycles.
• Alumni Panels: Host panels where alumni share their experiences and advice. This strengthens the connection between your school and the firms they represent.
• Mentorship Programs: Pair students with alumni mentors who can guide them through the recruiting process.

3. Enhance Career Services

• Dedicated Finance Recruiting Support: Work with your school’s career services to ensure they have strong relationships with BBs and asset managers.
• Resume Books: Create and distribute a polished resume book featuring top candidates to firms.
• On-Campus Recruiting: Push for more on-campus recruiting events and info sessions with BBs and asset managers.

4. Build a Strong Track Record

• Highlight Success Stories: Showcase students who have landed roles at top firms to inspire others and demonstrate the school’s potential.
• Internship Pipelines: Encourage underclassmen to secure internships early, even if they’re not in IB, to build relevant experience.

5. Collaborate with Firms

• Exclusive Partnerships: Work with firms to create exclusive recruiting pipelines or programs for your school.
• Firm-Sponsored Events: Host events sponsored by BBs or asset managers to increase their visibility on campus.

6. Promote Financial Modeling and Technical Skills

• Training Programs: Offer financial modeling courses or workshops (e.g., WSO Elite Modeling Package) to ensure students are technically prepared.
• Certifications: Encourage students to pursue certifications like CFA Level 1 or Wall Street Prep courses to stand out.

7. Engage with WSO Resources

• Resume Reviews: Use WSO’s professional resume review services to ensure students’ resumes are top-notch.
• Mock Interviews: Leverage WSO’s mock interview services to prepare students for technical and behavioral questions.
• Networking Guides: Share WSO’s networking guides to help students build meaningful connections.

By implementing these strategies, you can strengthen your school’s reputation and improve its placement rates at top firms. Remember, consistency and collaboration with alumni, career services, and firms are key to success!

Sources: UVA Undergrad for IB Recruiting, Incoming Freshman - Best Clubs for Investment Banking/PE at UPenn, UCLA Investment Banking 2023, Investment Banking University Recruiting Report – 7 Key Takeaways, How to get into Investment Banking from complete non-target