Investment Banking Networking questions

Hello all,
I have just started networking, but it feels like I am lacking with correct questions.

Can anybody help me, if I want to know about the industry, the projects and deals, their background and how there was a switch in careers etc.

thanks.

 
Most Helpful

Generally, keep your questions positive and unpresuming. People join networking calls because they want to help and offer advice (and some people just like to feel important). In either case, allow them some time to pontificate and talk about themselves. Don't talk about other calls you have done, other firms you are interested in, and other careers you are interested in. Below are some good evergreen questions you can ask anyone from analyst upwards.

What is your favorite deal you have worked on? What traits make up a good analyst or intern? What are some interesting trends in the space you cover? What made you enter banking / why have you stayed to this point (would not ask analysts this second one) What habits or methods do you use to keep current? Can you talk about the difference between working with family owned businesses and sponsor owned businesses? (could be good for MM - I would like to answer this question).

I would add this. Don't equate a bad call to asking the wrong questions. Some people are just not great to talk to. I cringe a little when I think of some of my analyst counterparts giving people career or personal advice.

"If a grasshopper tries to fight a lawnmower, one may admire his courage but not his judgement.." - Robert Heinlein
 

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