I have friends on the other side

Hi folks,

I'm having an ER associate interview with a BB bank next week. Let's call it XYZ.

One of my best friends works at a $40B AUM Asset Management firm ABC as an analyst, covering the same sector. Currently, the sell-side analysts at XYZ bank has no relationship with ABC.

Do you think if it would be a good idea to mention that I can increase your exposure to ABC firm in my sales pitch?

Any help would be appreciated.

 

lol no. If you were related to the Partner/MD there 'maybe'...but an analyst friend is hardly anything to write home about. It might be a good idea, however, to mention it in a casual tone like 'my friend at x and I were discussing company y' etc.

If the glove don't fit, you must acquit!
 

I disagree. Outside of IBD the analyst title may be quite senior, and in that case such a relationship could very well be helpful. I would bring it up if the conversation goes into that direction somehow. I got asked a few times during PE recruiting whether I had connections that would help source deals or help in fundraising, for example.

 

On the bright side, when you get promoted to full analyst, you'll have a guaranteed vote from the buy side in the broker rankings.

All the world's indeed a stage, And we are merely players, Performers and portrayers, Each another's audience, Outside the gilded cage - Limelight (1981)
 

To answer OP, I think it's beneficial to mention this in your interview. $40bn AUM is nothing to sneer at, and for ER, the game is partly about getting votes & increasing ranking from the buy side. Unless they already have a strong relationship with XYZ, you'll also see your sales & traders covering XYZ eager to lick your behind in hopes of better acceess/votes from your friend. So mention it, but absolutely no need to overplay it & have it get to your head.

All the world's indeed a stage, And we are merely players, Performers and portrayers, Each another's audience, Outside the gilded cage - Limelight (1981)
 

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