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How to network and get an IB bulge bracket internship?
I would like some pieces of advice on how to network/increase my chances to get an IB internship at a bulge bracket bank. I am an international rising sophomore at Stanford with perfect grades and relevant finance internships. However, I am not great at networking and know that it is super important. How many times, for instance, do I normally need to talk to someone for them to give me a referral? Any tips on how to navigate the process? I am a bit clueless. Thanks in advance!
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5 answers
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Patrick’s Answer
Hey Luca,
One additional thing to add is finding people that you have commonalities with at your target companies. An obvious example would be your undergrad experience. Stanford has an incredible alumni network, and you can use LinkedIn to filter for people at a company you are interested in that also went to Stanford. Usually if you mention you are a current student looking to hear more about their career path, they will be more than willing to have a conversation.
Lots of times, those folks will still have a Stanford email that you can look up, or check any alumni databases you have access to for their new work email.
One additional thing to add is finding people that you have commonalities with at your target companies. An obvious example would be your undergrad experience. Stanford has an incredible alumni network, and you can use LinkedIn to filter for people at a company you are interested in that also went to Stanford. Usually if you mention you are a current student looking to hear more about their career path, they will be more than willing to have a conversation.
Lots of times, those folks will still have a Stanford email that you can look up, or check any alumni databases you have access to for their new work email.
Updated
Aditi’s Answer
To kickstart your journey, conduct a LinkedIn search for alumni from your school who are presently employed at the Investment Bank (IB) you're aiming for. Consider exploring boutique IB firms such as Qatalyst Partners, Centerview, Lazard, and others, rather than solely focusing on bulge brackets (some of the boutiques are better in terms of prestige/deals vs bbs). After creating a list of individuals, reach out to them with connection requests or brief messages, expressing your interest in IB as a current (SUBJECT) major at Stanford. Suggest a casual coffee chat to learn about their experiences at the firm and any advice they might have for you.
Remember to share an updated resume and propose convenient time slots, making it easier for them to confirm their availability. Once they do, send a calendar invite and prepare to share your "story" - a brief introduction and explanation of your interest in IB and their company and also have some good questions ready to ask them. These discussions are usually informal, and towards the end, ask for any recommendations or advice they might have for you.
After the call, send a prompt thank you note, and inform them when you apply for the role.
Remember to share an updated resume and propose convenient time slots, making it easier for them to confirm their availability. Once they do, send a calendar invite and prepare to share your "story" - a brief introduction and explanation of your interest in IB and their company and also have some good questions ready to ask them. These discussions are usually informal, and towards the end, ask for any recommendations or advice they might have for you.
After the call, send a prompt thank you note, and inform them when you apply for the role.
Updated
Yiling’s Answer
Standford might have a career service department that offers interview suggestions and holds networking events. Speaking of which, September-November are peak seasons for activities. Build a LinkedIn profile and reach out to alumni or people you share an interest with (e.g. running). Chat with them like a friend. Ask them about their career moves and advices. And bring up you'd like a referral. People may not have something available immediately but they will keep you in mind when something opens up.
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Kathie’s Answer
I strongly suggest you take advantage of the clubs and resources your university offers. Building a network is crucial, and you can enhance this skill through activities like mock interviews and networking sessions. Don't worry too much about referrals for internships or new job offers straight after college, as most graduates have similar skill sets. Instead, focus on establishing connections with recruiters early on by attending career fairs, participating in pre-interview dinners, and reaching out to recent graduates.
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Caroline’s Answer
Cold emailing people who went to your school and who currently work at firms you are interested in is a great way to start networking! Start with people who are younger and perhaps 1-2 years out of school as they are more likely to respond to you and give you advice, as they recently went through the recruiting process. Ask them about their day-to-day life, show interest in what they have to say, and ask them for advice. Build relationships organically and if you click with someone over the phone, make sure to check in every couple of months to make sure they remember you. If an internship opportunity opens up, they will be more likely to reach out to you if you are top of mind.
Another tip for later on in your career is to never underestimate the power of your network from school. Having graduated a couple of years ago, I am always surprised to see how many people from my class I know at different firms. Keeping those connections close will help you later in your career if you ever decide to switch firms or need a career switch.
Another tip for later on in your career is to never underestimate the power of your network from school. Having graduated a couple of years ago, I am always surprised to see how many people from my class I know at different firms. Keeping those connections close will help you later in your career if you ever decide to switch firms or need a career switch.