When is the optimal time to network for IB?

Definitely not too late to recruit for BBs, you have more than enough time to network, same goes for the MM. Start now after New Years and by the time apps open for most BBs you will have talked to a good amount of people. Make sure you’re well polished before you start hopping on the phone with people - have your story down and come prepared with a few questions. Also keep it somewhat conversational - start off with small talk and keep it somewhat casual (unless the person you’re talking to doesn’t prefer that), nobody wants to hop on the phone with a robot feeding questions about IB. I’ve hardly had anyone ask me technicals over the phone, but it could happen so don’t be surprised if they ask a basic technical or ask for your thoughts on xyz going on in the market. At the end of the call it’s typically good to ask if there’s anyone else they suggest you reach out to. Following up with a thank you note afterwards can also be a good thing to do, and be sure to follow up with them a few months down the road. At the end of the day don’t overthink it too much, you want to have a polished story and answers to why banking and other related questions, but most importantly you should come off as someone who is interesting and would be enjoyable to work with.