How do you behave at networking drinks or recruiting cocktail events?

It is still an interview, just less formal.

Limit yourself to 1-2 drinks. Beer or wine is safer than cocktails. Drink slowly and alternate with water. Not drinking is fine; order sparkling water or non-alcoholic beer confidently.

Ask thoughtful questions, listen well, and avoid turning every conversation into a rehearsed pitch. Good topics include sector trends, career path, team workflow, and market observations.

client gossip, compensation, hours complaints, politics, aggressive networking, monopolizing one banker, or visibly trying to impress.

Thank people, keep it concise, and follow up only if the conversation had substance.

mature, socially aware, and safe around clients.