Student to Corporate Finance Analyst: Networking & Career Advice That Works

Most students know they need to “network” to break into finance. Very few are told how to actually do it properly.

In this episode of the Market Maker Podcast, Anthony Cheung sits down with corporate finance analyst Liam Edward Proctor to break down how students can build relationships, stand out in applications and navigate finance careers without coming from a traditional background.

Liam shares how he went from a non-target university into corporate finance, common networking mistakes students make, how to approach coffee chats, LinkedIn strategies that actually work and why commercial awareness matters more than ever in today’s graduate market.

The conversation also explores rejection, imposter syndrome and how students can create opportunities beyond simply submitting online applications.

If you’re applying for internships, spring weeks or graduate roles in finance, this episode is packed with practical advice you can apply immediately.

(00:00) Liam’s Finance Journey

(01:59) Do You Need Internships?

(04:33) What vs Who You Know

(06:48) Coffee Chat Preparation

(08:34) Building Commercial Awareness

(13:29) Leveraging LinkedIn & Imposter Syndrome

(16:55) Meeting Howard Marks

(22:00) Handling Rejection

(26:39) Non-Target University Advice

(30:08) Networking Follow-Up Tips