Should You Network With Investment Bankers in Every Location?

You generally should network with bankers in locations where you would genuinely accept an offer. Office choice can affect recruiting, group exposure, deal flow, and your day-to-day life, so contacting every office usually creates more confusion than opportunity. This guide explains how to focus your outreach, evaluate exceptions, and use cross-office introductions effectively.

Author: Michael Harris Updated 8 min read

Treat location as a real career decision

In investment banking, location is more than a line beneath the bank’s name. Your office may influence which industry or product groups you can join, the clients you encounter, the size and type of transactions you work on, and your long-term professional network. Staffing models vary, but many offices have distinct strengths and recruiting processes.

Location also determines where you will live during a demanding job. Consider whether you would actually relocate, your ties to the area, cost of living, proximity to family, and any work-authorization constraints. You do not need a dramatic personal connection to a city, but you should be able to explain why it makes sense for you.

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