What to do Now ( No Return, FT recruiting)

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here’s a game plan to tackle your situation and maximize your chances of landing a full-time role:

1. Cold Emailing and LinkedIn Messaging

• Cold Emailing: Use a concise and professional template. For example: Hi Name, My name is [Your Name], and I am a senior at [Your University] pursuing a career in [specific field]. I recently completed a summer internship at [Firm Name] and would love to learn more about your career path and any advice you might have for someone in my position. If you have 10-15 minutes to chat, I’d greatly appreciate it. Best regards, [Your Name]

  • Use tools like Hunter.io to find email formats for firms.
  • Keep your emails short, respectful, and to the point. Avoid attaching your resume in the first email; instead, include a LinkedIn hyperlink in your signature.

• LinkedIn Messaging:

  • Connect with professionals in your target firms, especially alumni or those with similar backgrounds.
  • Personalize your connection requests and follow up with a polite message asking for advice or a quick chat.
  • LinkedIn Premium can be a game-changer, as it expands your search and messaging capabilities.

2. Networking

• Attend campus recruitment events, even if they’re virtual. These are great opportunities to meet professionals and make an impression.
• Ask for introductions from people you’ve already connected with. For example, after a conversation, ask if they can introduce you to someone in charge of recruitment or someone else in their network.

3. Follow-Up Strategy

• Track your outreach efforts in an Excel sheet. Include details like who you contacted, when, and the outcome.
• Send polite follow-up emails if you don’t hear back after a week. Limit follow-ups to 2-3 times.

4. Target HR Strategically

• While HR can be helpful, they’re often inundated with applications. Focus on building relationships with professionals who can advocate for you internally. Once you’ve established a connection, they might refer you to HR themselves.

5. Leverage Your Non-Target Background

• Highlight your unique story and resilience. Many professionals respect candidates who’ve overcome challenges to break into the industry.
• Use LinkedIn to showcase your experience and skills. Ensure your profile is sharp and up-to-date.

6. Volume and Persistence

• Cold email and message as many relevant professionals as possible. Success rates can be low, but persistence pays off. For example, some users on WSO have sent 1,000+ emails to secure a handful of meetings.

7. Stay Positive and Resilient

• It’s a tough situation, but many have been in your shoes and succeeded. Focus on what you can control—your effort and attitude.
• Don’t let external pressures, like your girlfriend’s comments, derail your focus. This is about your career and future.

8. Consider Alternative Paths

• If IB roles are scarce, look into related fields like corporate finance, consulting, or boutique firms. These can serve as stepping stones to your ultimate goal.

Remember, the key is to stay proactive, organized, and persistent. You’ve got this!

Sources: Two Internships Later: What I wish I Knew While Recruiting! (Toronto), Non-Target with Great Experience and 4.0 GPA - How do I get people to talk to me when Networking or turn HR's head when I apply?, Cold Emailing/LinkedIn Messaging, How to Network and Tips on Networking, How I used LinkedIn to get Interviews and Land Offers