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If a firm has a designated internship/HR email or application portal, should one first apply through the official channel and then cold-email relevant partners, or is it better to cold-email the partner first and apply through the official channel only if they ask you to?
I’m particularly confused because I’ve seen very different advice. Some people say partners will simply redirect you to HR if the firm has a formal process, while others say that cold-emailing partners can work if the email is personalised and relevant to their practice.
So, practically speaking:
1. Should the official application be submitted first?
2. If yes, how long should one wait before emailing a partner?
3. If cold-emailing a partner, should one mention that an application has already been submitted through the official channel?
4. Does this strategy differ for Tier 1 firms vs smaller firms?
Would especially appreciate answers from people who have actually secured internships through either approach.