Should you still register with HHers even if you don't want to recruit on-cycle?

Based on the insights from Wall Street Oasis, it's generally a good idea to establish relationships with headhunters (HHs) even if you're not planning to recruit on-cycle immediately. Here’s why:

1. Building Relationships Early: Engaging with HHs early helps you build a rapport and keeps you on their radar for future opportunities. This can be beneficial as you navigate your career transitions, whether on-cycle or off-cycle.

2. Flexibility in Recruitment: Many firms, including some top ones like Apollo, have been known to conduct ad-hoc interviews and recruit off-cycle, especially for candidates who are not ready or willing to participate in the on-cycle rush. This flexibility can work to your advantage if you've already established connections with HHs.

3. Preparation and Timing: If you're not feeling prepared for on-cycle recruiting, communicating this to HHs can actually be beneficial. It shows that you are thoughtful about your career and committed to being well-prepared when you do decide to move forward. This can enhance your credibility and the quality of your interactions with HHs.

4. Candid Communication: Being upfront about your timeline and readiness can help set the right expectations with HHs. This transparency is often appreciated and can prevent any potential misunderstandings or misalignments in your recruitment process.

In conclusion, registering with HHs and maintaining open, honest communication about your intentions and timeline can be a strategic move. It won’t necessarily damage the relationship if handled professionally. Instead, it can lay a foundation for future opportunities when you are ready to recruit.

Sources: 2020 On-Cycle Recruiting Anecdote, Off Cycle Recruiting Stories, Q&A: I am a Hedge Fund recruiter, A Guide on How to Navigate On-Cycle PE Recruiting, DONT DO ON-CYCLE...If you’re not prepared

Based on the insights from Wall Street Oasis, it's generally a good idea to establish relationships with headhunters (HHs) even if you're not planning to recruit on-cycle immediately. Here’s why:

1. Building Relationships Early: Engaging with HHs early can help you build a rapport and keep you on their radar for future opportunities. This can be beneficial when you decide to recruit later, whether on-cycle or off-cycle.

2. Flexibility in Recruitment: Many firms, including top ones like Apollo, have been known to conduct ad-hoc interviews and recruit off-cycle, especially for candidates who are not ready to jump into the on-cycle recruitment rush. This flexibility allows you to better prepare and approach the recruitment process when you feel ready.

3. Communication is Key: It’s important to be transparent with HHs about your timeline and readiness. Most HHs appreciate honesty and clarity about your career plans. This helps them tailor opportunities that match your timeline and ensures they contact you when relevant opportunities arise.

4. Preparation Advantage: By interacting with HHs early, you can gain insights into what is expected in the recruitment process, which can aid in your preparation. They can provide valuable feedback on what skills and experiences are crucial for the roles you are interested in.

5. No Damage to Relationship: As long as you communicate your intentions clearly and respectfully, registering with HHs without the intent to immediately recruit should not damage the relationship. In fact, it shows foresight and planning on your part, traits that are highly valued in the finance industry.

In summary, registering with HHs even when you're not ready to recruit can be a strategic move, allowing you to build relationships, prepare better, and ultimately find a role that fits your career goals and timeline.

Sources: 2020 On-Cycle Recruiting Anecdote, Off Cycle Recruiting Stories, A Guide on How to Navigate On-Cycle PE Recruiting, DONT DO ON-CYCLE...If you’re not prepared, Q&A: I am a Hedge Fund recruiter