Etiquette re: Encouraging Lateral Applications Forum

[Anonymous User]

Background: Mid-level finance associate at a v10 in DC. My practice group is quite understaffed, and while we have hired a few laterals this year, we are still actively looking to hire a few more. Due to the nature of my practice, I regularly work across from the same handful of firms. Over the course of a handful of deals, I've developed a good working relationship with a handful of sharp mid-level associates who I'd love to have join our group.

Question: Is it inappropriate to gently encourage these few associates with whom I have decent rapport to consider lateraling? Obviously not a cold email out of the blue (instead, right after closing a deal, when giving the pleasantries ("nice to work with you, look forward to the next one," etc.)), to include a short note like, "if you ever consider lateralling and are interested in the DC market, let me know--I think [firm] would be very interested in your application."

Self-interest aside (referral bonus), our practice group simply needs more bodies, and I've seen their work a number of times and it is always solid, so it seems a no-brainer to reach out--unless this goes against some unspoken rule about "poaching" associates from deal teams.

Interested to hear opinions on this and thanks in advance.

**Anon due to prior posts, which would reveal my identity**