An investment banking networking call is usually a brief informational conversation with an analyst, associate, vice president, or managing director. Your immediate goal is to learn from the banker and leave a professional impression. Over time, a series of good conversations can help you understand firms, prepare for interviews, and build relationships with people who may support your candidacy.
Do not treat the call as an interview you need to dominate. You also should not open by asking for a referral, an interview, or help getting your résumé selected. The banker may eventually offer assistance, but you need to establish credibility first.
A successful first call generally accomplishes three things: you understand the banker’s path or group better, the banker understands why you are interested, and you both have a reasonable basis for staying in touch. That is enough. Recruiting relationships usually develop through a series of professional interactions, not one dramatic conversation.