So I hear a lot about networking on this site and how it is important, especially if you go to a non-target or a semi-target. How hard is networking and how should one go about networking? In an ideal world, I would want to work for a BB investment bank or at least an EB investment bank, however I fear that this may not be possible if I go to what is considered a non-target. Any helpful tips on how to network properly and your own experiences with networking would be greatly appreciated.
"at least an EB" ... ok bro. 1, you should learn a bit more about the landscape so you don't say something with that level of naivete to a banker.
2, this "networking" you speak of is not "hard" unless you find social interactions difficult. Learn to write a nice, concise introductory email and send it to some analysts at banks you're interested in; try to get on the phone and ask them some genuine questions.
Alright sorry. Should have phrased it like that. Was just stating the types of bank I am aiming to work at but nothing is ever ideal. And no, social interactions are not difficult for me so I guess I should be okay. Thanks for the tips though.
No problem. Following up on my previous comment, a non-target recruiting experience isn't optimal. To put things in perspective, I networked almost exclusively with alums from my school and found that they were the most helpful. Coming from a non-target, this may be a more limited option, so I would start making a spreadsheet of people you can cold-email and update it as they get back to you. Make sure to join clubs with current seniors who were successful in the process - you can leverage them, too.
Networking Do's and Don'ts (Originally Posted: 06/11/2017)
Hey guys I've got a meeting coming up with a head of sales in a couple days, potential to get some intern work out of it. Anyone got any suggestions of what I should and shouldn't do? I mean I have a good idea on how not to be an idiot, I just mean any advice would be greatly appreciated, with regards to questions etc. Cheers
This topic has been covered by others. If you do some research you will find the answers to your questions.
network network NETWORK! (Originally Posted: 06/06/2008)
How exactly does one network? This may sound retarded to you guys, but please just help me out. Does it only consist of sending a couple of emails?
Thanks.
Are you a college student? Networking for them basically means talking to the right people at info sessions/on-campus events, alumni, professional events, social clubs, etc.
hm...have you tried cisco or linksys?
(in college) ask for business cards and give them your resumes! Or, go to happy hour and all the social functions at hosted by your work and make yourself known!!
Make sure you stay away from emails unless you've met the person. Either that or make sure that you have someone in contact with them (colleague etc.)ask if it is alright that you're given their contact information etc. And more importantly, continue to follow-up/check-in if that person seems receptive to it.
I am going into an analyst program right now with a MM bank, but I am still in contact with people at 3 other banks I interned and/or interviewed with. That's sort of the essence of networking. I keep them up to date on what I am doing, ask for advice etc.
If you do that, your personal network just keeps growing.
I've had success through just email and phone calls.
What about at information sessions and networking events? What do you say to them? What questions, topics?
I personally think asking how to network is like asking how to pick up a chick- either you get it or you don't, and if you're asking on an internet forum... well it doesn't bode well for you.
There is no "secret sauce"; think about what you would want to see if you worked at a bank and you were faced with a horde of otherwise indistinguishable undergrads.
Networking is KEY (Originally Posted: 04/09/2013)
I cannot stress how important networking is. I am sure everyone knows this, but I will reiterate it once more. I had an interview for a SA in the last few weeks and it is only because I knew someone high up in the bank. I did not believe in networking years ago, but it is so right. While you are studying the technicals hard, make sure you are meeting people. I was told that cold emails can be annoying, so you actually have to try and meet people in a social setting of some sort and things will happen...you just watch.
cool story bro