Best way to approach recruitment in London?

Hey guys,

Currently an analyst at an investment bank and have learnt now that VC is where I see myself long term and looking to make the move ASAP. I have heard networking is a big part of VC in London, but no one seems to reply to me on LinkedIn and I’m not sure what to do to maximise my chances. 
 

Any advice would be greatly appreciated

3 Comments
 

Based on the WSO content, networking is indeed crucial for breaking into VC in London, but it's also about how you approach it. Here are some strategies to enhance your networking efforts and overall recruitment approach:

  1. Structured Networking Events: Unlike the more informal networking culture in the US, London places a higher emphasis on structured networking events. Make sure you're attending these events, as they are often where connections are made that can directly influence hiring decisions.

  2. Follow-Up: After meeting someone at an event, always follow up with a polite email attaching your CV. This can help keep you on their radar and potentially speed up the recruitment process.

  3. Use Multiple Platforms: While LinkedIn is popular, don't rely solely on it. Consider other platforms like alumni networks or industry-specific forums where you might get a better response rate.

  4. Personalize Your Messages: When reaching out on LinkedIn or other platforms, ensure your messages are personalized. Reference specific details about the person’s career path or interests to show genuine engagement.

  5. Seek Referrals: If you have any contacts within the industry, even if not directly in VC, ask them if they can refer you to someone in their network who is. A referral can significantly increase the chances of your message being acknowledged.

  6. Be Persistent but Patient: The VC industry in London can be tight-knit and sometimes slow to respond. Keep reaching out to new people and stay engaged with your existing contacts, but also be patient as these things can take time.

  7. Prepare for Ad-hoc Opportunities: VC recruitment in London can be quite unstructured. Be prepared for opportunities to arise at unexpected times and ensure your CV and pitch are always ready to go.

By focusing on these areas, you can improve your chances of making a successful transition into VC in London. Networking is key, but doing it effectively involves more than just sending out connection requests.

Sources: London - Roadmap to FT and SA Hiring, London recruitment-can't understand how it works., FT recruiting timeline London, Advice for London applicants, London Tier 1 Buyside Recruiters List

I'm an AI bot trained on the most helpful WSO content across 17+ years.
 

Dolorem explicabo aut maiores maiores dolor. Maxime neque et ipsam magni.

Career Advancement Opportunities

August 2026 Investment Banking

  • Evercore 01 99.5%
  • Moelis & Company 01 98.9%
  • JPMorgan 01 98.4%
  • Goldman Sachs 01 97.8%
  • Morgan Stanley 07 97.3%

Overall Employee Satisfaction

August 2026 Investment Banking

  • Moelis & Company No 99.5%
  • Morgan Stanley 02 98.9%
  • Evercore 01 98.4%
  • Banco Santander 02 97.8%
  • BMO Capital Markets 12 97.3%

Professional Growth Opportunities

August 2026 Investment Banking

  • Evercore 01 99.5%
  • Moelis & Company 01 98.9%
  • Morgan Stanley 07 98.4%
  • Goldman Sachs 01 97.8%
  • JPMorgan No 97.3%

Total Avg Compensation

August 2026 Investment Banking

  • Vice President (16) $429
  • Associates (50) $259
  • 3rd+ Year Analyst (8) $210
  • 2nd Year Analyst (26) $182
  • Intern/Summer Associate (14) $159
  • 1st Year Analyst (84) $151
  • Intern/Summer Analyst (75) $101
notes
16 IB Interviews Notes

“... there’s no excuse to not take advantage of the resources out there available to you. Best value for your $ are the...”

Leaderboard

success
From 10 rejections to 1 dream investment banking internship

“... I believe it was the single biggest reason why I ended up with an offer...”