200+ Networking calls, 0 offers. What am I doing wrong?

It sounds like you're putting in a tremendous amount of effort, but there are a few areas where you might refine your approach to increase your chances. Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some actionable tips:

1. Refine Your Networking Strategy

• Quality Over Quantity: While 200+ contacts is impressive, focus on building deeper relationships with fewer people. Target alumni from your school, professionals with similar career paths, or those who have transitioned into Sales & Trading from non-traditional backgrounds.
• Follow-Up: After calls or coffee chats, send personalized follow-ups. Keep the relationship alive by sharing relevant articles, insights, or updates about your progress.
• Mini-Asks: Instead of asking for a job outright, request smaller favors like resume feedback, mock interviews, or introductions to others in their network.

2. Leverage Your School’s Resources

• Career Office: Make your school’s career office work for you. They often have exclusive job postings or connections with recruiters.
• Professors: Build relationships with professors who might have industry connections or can vouch for you.
• Alumni Network: Your Top 3 French Business School alumni network is a goldmine. Reach out to alumni in Sales & Trading or related fields and ask for advice or insights.

3. Broaden Your Scope

• Target Smaller Firms: While Tier 1 and Tier 2 banks are competitive, smaller firms, boutique asset managers, or regional banks might offer opportunities to get your foot in the door.
• Consider Other Roles: Middle Office, Risk, or Treasury roles can be stepping stones to the Trading Floor. Once inside, you can network internally and transition later.

4. Sharpen Your Interview Skills

• Mock Interviews: Practice with friends, mentors, or even professionals in your network. Focus on both technical and behavioral questions.
• Feedback: After your two interviews, did you ask for feedback? Understanding where you fell short can help you improve for the next round.

5. Stand Out in Applications

• Tailored Applications: Customize your resume and cover letter for each role. Highlight specific skills or experiences that align with the job description.
• Unique Selling Point: What makes you different from the other 300+ applicants? Emphasize your macro knowledge, language skills, or any unique experiences.

6. Stay Persistent and Creative

• Physical CV Drop-Off: While standing outside bank towers might not be the best idea, consider attending industry events, conferences, or meetups where you can network in person.
• Keep Applying: Even if the internship start date is approaching, continue applying. Some firms might have last-minute openings or cancellations.

7. Mindset and Resilience

• Stay Positive: It only takes one "yes" to change everything. Keep pushing and refining your approach.
• Learn from Rejections: Each rejection is an opportunity to improve. Reflect on what went wrong and adjust accordingly.

Remember, breaking into Sales & Trading is highly competitive, but your determination and willingness to adapt will set you apart. Keep grinding, and don’t hesitate to leverage every resource at your disposal!

Sources: Two Internships Later: What I wish I Knew While Recruiting! (Toronto), Freshmen: What to do during your freshman year summer, Some advice on getting a job or internship by Monty09, You want a summer analyst offer? Here's how..., Offer rescinded what can I do now?