Networking in U.S vs. Europe

Was wondering if you guys had thoughts on the differences between networking in the states and Europe. If you apply American networking techniques, is it considered pushy? For example, calling to follow up after a couple days?

Asatar:
Absolutely. What people do in the US would be considered brash, over-the-top and even downright rude here. Don't do it. Be more subtle, laid back, relaxed etc. Don't go into every single conversation looking to get a CV drop or an interview referral, just try to get to know the people.

As harsh as that advice sound, I have to agree. But some of your US networking techniques can come in handy, a bit more push than your European counterpart might do the trick. Americans manage to show more curiosity than their European counterparts, that's something you definitely do not want to contain.

 

That's true but networking is also very useful in the UK. I have landed quite a few interviews by pretty much getting to know bankers and getting my name out there.

Can't speak for the US because never experienced US networking before, but in the UK its mainly just talking to the bankers and getting them to like you - if they do, they'll give your name to the HR and you'll get an interview :) But of course you have to apply online first as well.

 

My bank hired an intern last week just because he reached out to a senior ER guy. The intern will now work with analysts collecting data and work on his bachelor thesis (work experience and a mentor on his thesis all in one). Anything is possible if you step outside the networking norm in Europe.

CNBC sucks "This financial crisis is worse than a divorce. I've lost all my money, but the wife is still here." - Client after getting blown up
 

I don't think it's "rarely done". It's done all the time but in a more subtle/less agressive way. And if you do it the wrong way it won't be very effective. Some interns at my bank didn't get offers simply because they "tried too hard" asking for work/coffee meetings too many times, to the wrong people and at the wrong time. Be open, be sociable, but don't be pushy.

 
Best Response
Thedss:
Is it safe to say that Americans are hungrier?
No. It's safe to say that Americans are crass, brash, loud and lack tact. Hence, respond to similar advances.
"After you work on Wall Street it’s a choice, would you rather work at McDonalds or on the sell-side? I would choose McDonalds over the sell-side.” - David Tepper
 

Dignissimos rerum et et et dolorem nihil. Aspernatur amet voluptatem omnis dolores debitis. Sapiente sint est qui sed ad nihil. Eum modi velit est libero.

Dolorum nulla eveniet placeat et. Sunt quo eos ea molestiae quo. Quibusdam porro ut ratione doloribus veritatis dicta.

Deserunt distinctio facilis non eos amet. Pariatur eos id repudiandae. Commodi facere dolores cum qui qui non iste. Autem assumenda iure molestias ad nihil impedit quasi.

Career Advancement Opportunities

March 2024 Investment Banking

  • Jefferies & Company 02 99.4%
  • Goldman Sachs 19 98.8%
  • Harris Williams & Co. (++) 98.3%
  • Lazard Freres 02 97.7%
  • JPMorgan Chase 03 97.1%

Overall Employee Satisfaction

March 2024 Investment Banking

  • Harris Williams & Co. 18 99.4%
  • JPMorgan Chase 10 98.8%
  • Lazard Freres 05 98.3%
  • Morgan Stanley 07 97.7%
  • William Blair 03 97.1%

Professional Growth Opportunities

March 2024 Investment Banking

  • Lazard Freres 01 99.4%
  • Jefferies & Company 02 98.8%
  • Goldman Sachs 17 98.3%
  • Moelis & Company 07 97.7%
  • JPMorgan Chase 05 97.1%

Total Avg Compensation

March 2024 Investment Banking

  • Director/MD (5) $648
  • Vice President (19) $385
  • Associates (86) $261
  • 3rd+ Year Analyst (13) $181
  • Intern/Summer Associate (33) $170
  • 2nd Year Analyst (66) $168
  • 1st Year Analyst (202) $159
  • Intern/Summer Analyst (144) $101
notes
16 IB Interviews Notes

“... there’s no excuse to not take advantage of the resources out there available to you. Best value for your $ are the...”

Leaderboard

1
redever's picture
redever
99.2
2
Secyh62's picture
Secyh62
99.0
3
Betsy Massar's picture
Betsy Massar
99.0
4
BankonBanking's picture
BankonBanking
99.0
5
dosk17's picture
dosk17
98.9
6
DrApeman's picture
DrApeman
98.9
7
kanon's picture
kanon
98.9
8
CompBanker's picture
CompBanker
98.9
9
GameTheory's picture
GameTheory
98.9
10
Jamoldo's picture
Jamoldo
98.8
success
From 10 rejections to 1 dream investment banking internship

“... I believe it was the single biggest reason why I ended up with an offer...”