[Networking] Secured a 1-hour scheduled Zoom call with an MD

This will be my first video call with an MD from a BB. Mostly I’ve spoken to ex-interns and analysts at the level. MD sent a calendar invitation and it will be scheduled for 60 minutes.

How do I prepare? What questions would you recommend? I got my own ideas but would really appreciate recommendations from those of you who have been there. Would really appreciate it!

My background is as a Fixed Income and Currencies S&T sophomore intern, while the MD I’m contacting is working in the IBD division (Structured Solutions & DCM), but not in M&A. I’m not totally sure how to connect my experience in the Markets.

 
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Lol tbh I don't know what you'll be able to talk about for a full hour. Generally, even with MDs or directors, once I hit the 30-40 minute mark I end the call cuz I feel like I'm wasting his/her time beyond that. 

Regarding to what you should talk about - it's a perfect fit lmao. You're in fixed Income, he's in DCM. Look up some of his recent deals. Go on Google and type in "X Bank, bond prospectus." Maybe even type his name cuz it'll probably show up on a bunch of SEC filings. You can see some of the recent deals he's originated; that could be a good starting point. 

 

Thank you for your advice!!

Do you have any hints of good closing remarks? Should you be the one who “initiate” of ending the call or waiting for subtle cues on from the MD?

Do you think it will be appropriate to ask for internship/full-time advice or vacancies? Is it common to follow-up via email after the call, and what to include?

Thank you again in advance :)

 

Ending calls/zoom meetings is all about social cues, how the conversation is going. If the conversation is going well, great - just keep talking and make it interesting. If you have no other questions and the convo has died down, then just be friendly and thank him for his time, etc. Generally, I would say to not just flat out ask for the job. Instead, ask if he knows of any full time "opportunities" or how the recruiting works. Assuming he's not autistic, he'll understand that you're trying get a job. There's probably 3 things he might say 1) "No sorry" (that's just a rip, nothing you can do about it), 2) "I'm not really sure, let me look into it" (maybe give him like a 5-7 days, then send a follow up email. You could also send him a thank-you email immediately after but don't be pushy about it), 3) "Yeah, we're looking to bring on another analyst. Send me your resume." (whoo hoo, you just hit the jackpot). Good luck bro.

 
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If this is a video call make sure that a large America flag is displayed in your backround. Also I would recommend you say “hell yea brother” at the end of every mds sentence. Bankers love patriots and doing this will secure you an internship for sure.

 

If you ever had other networking calls and took notes, you can bring up '' person XYZ told me this about the industry, what's your take on the topic?''. Chances are you get an opinion on probably the most relevant issue in the industry, you show basic knowledge and interest, as well as understanding of what matters. You can also say ''person A told me this, person B told me that''. 

It was my consistent winner. I had networking calls that lasted 10 minutes at best. Others that started poorly but with the right question ended up lasting 45 mins, with the person then asking me for CV and offering to recommend me. It got fun after a while and I met some really nice people all over the industry. 

Never discuss with idiots, first they drag you at their level, then they beat you with experience.
 

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