How to Succeed in PE as a Non-Target

I am roughly 5 years into my career and I am in a Partner track role at a MF PE in NY. I attended an extreme non-target and I spent a few years in Investment Banking and MM PE before landing my current job. I decided to forgo the MBA b/c I did not think I could realistically get into HBS / GSB so I pursued the lateral move. Now that I'm in my current seat, I am seeing the value of the network that you might have from an MBA program. Does anyone have any experience in building out your professional network that becomes important as you move up the ladder in PE? How do you guys meet other private equity professionals, service providers, industry executives, etc.? I feel like I have good branding from a professional standpoint, but obviously lack it on the education front. Thanks

 

I've forgone the b-school route and personally have struggled to do what you're describing - part of it is being very good about staying in contact with former co-workers.  These are the people that will go to bat for you given they've worked with you prior and are likely still in areas of high finance.  Tougher with COVID, but just offering to grab a beer or coffee can keep the connections warm.  

One of my former bosses keeps recurring 6-month reminders to reach out to ALL former associates he worked with - been meaning to do something similar. 

 

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