Meeting with traders

Hi everyone,

I'm meeting with some traders at various firms in NY tomorrow and was hoping to get some advice.

This is mostly an opportunity to learn more about the industry and see if it is one I'd be interested in. Definitely not a series of interviews, but I still want to make a good impression of course...

What kind of questions should I ask? What should my expectations be? I want to show that I'm interested but I don't want to be excessive to the point that I get in the way. Is there anything in particular that I should pay extra close attention to?

Thank you

 
Best Response

Is this a campus networking event? If so, just remember to not be that arrogant guy who pretends to know all about the markets and etc. Next, ask about their experiences whether it is why they wanted to become a trader, what was the most challenging aspect of the role when they first started, and etc. The goal is to get them to talk and share their stories. Then, make a connection with them like "That's really interesting, similar to why I want to become a trader" and etc. And like any other networking events, don't ask them a question like "how are the hours" or any other questions you can find online. Plan your questions before attending the event. Finally, make sure to ask if you can reach out in the future if you do have any more questions about the firm. Lastly, ask for their business card and perhaps find them on LinkedIn.

Next, if it is one of those corporate events that most bulge brackets hold in their offices for college students, the same rules applies. Finally, to conclude:

1) Don't be cocky 2) Get the traders to start talking about themselves and try to build a connection with them 3) Ask thoughtful questions 4) Even if the traders don't answer your follow-up emails, follow up with them couple months later. After all, they are flooded with emails from your peers as well.

Just my two cents of how I managed to make great connections during these events. With that said, wish you the best of luck!

 

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