Asset Management Outreach Made Simple
This conversation was generated using Cook'd AI's career assistant and reviewed by Fallon Han from our editorial team for accuracy.
I'm a sophomore business student in Australia and I want an asset management internship in Sydney. As an Australian citizen, I think I should start reaching out now, but I feel awkward about how to begin. Should I be contacting analysts instead of managing directors? And what do I actually ask for on the first message or call?
Yes, start with analysts, associates, and other junior professionals first. They are usually easier to reach, more relatable, and better suited to giving practical advice on recruiting and day-to-day work.
Your first ask should be small and specific. Don't ask for a job. Ask for a brief chat to learn about their path and the asset management recruiting process in Sydney.
You can use a casual but respectful tone like:
Hi [Name], I'm a sophomore business student in Sydney and I'm exploring asset management internships. I saw your role at [Firm] and was hoping I could ask for 10 to 15 minutes of advice on how you broke in and what you think matters most for students recruiting now.
That works because it is clear, low-pressure, and easy to say yes to.
That helps. If they agree to a call, what should I say at the start so I don't sound stiff? And what kind of questions are actually useful for an analyst, not just generic networking questions?
Open warm, brief, and direct. Example:
Thanks for taking the time. I really appreciate it. I'm trying to learn more about asset management recruiting in Sydney and how students can prepare properly.
Then ask questions that an analyst can answer from real experience. Good ones are:
What did your path into asset management look like?
What kind of student experience or skills made you stand out?
If you were in my position, where would you focus over the next few months?
What do interns or analysts actually do that surprises students?
When you were a student, how did you approach networking without sounding transactional?
Avoid asking them to refer you immediately. The goal is to get useful context and build a real connection first.
Okay. I think my biggest issue is writing the outreach message. I want it to sound casual, not desperate. Can you give me an example message to an analyst in Sydney? Also, should I mention that I'm an Australian citizen?
Yes, mention your citizenship only if it is relevant and natural, since it can help with internship timing and work eligibility. Keep it to one short phrase.
Here is a simple outreach message:
Hi [Name], I am a sophomore business student in Sydney and I am exploring asset management internships for next year. I came across your profile and was interested in your path into the industry. If you have 10 to 15 minutes, I would really appreciate the chance to ask a few questions and learn from your experience. I am an Australian citizen, so I am actively looking at local opportunities and trying to understand how students prepare best.
This sounds casual, respectful, and not too long.
If you want it even more relaxed, you can say:
Hi [Name], hope you're well. I'm a business student in Sydney looking to learn more about asset management and internship recruiting. Your background stood out to me, and I'd love to ask for a few minutes of advice if you're open to it.
If they reply yes, how do I keep the conversation going without sounding like I'm interviewing them? And how should I end the call so I leave a good impression and maybe set up a follow-up?
Think of it as a conversation, not an interview. Use follow-up prompts that react to what they say.
Examples:
That is helpful. What did you do early on to build confidence in the role?
Interesting. Was there anything you expected about the industry that turned out to be wrong?
That makes sense. If I wanted to prepare well as a student, what would you focus on first?
To leave a good impression, end with appreciation and one clear next step:
This has been really helpful, thank you. I appreciate the practical advice. If it's okay, I may reach out again once I have a few more applications underway.
If the conversation went well, you can add:
Would it be alright if I kept you updated on my progress and reached out again later this year?
That keeps the door open without being pushy.