There’s no straight and narrow path to a venture capital job. Many venture capitalists have industry experience, combined with an MBA from a top business school. However, there are plenty of exceptions to this rule. If you are looking for venture capital career opportunity, consider these tips.
“Show me the upside”
Venture capital partners value the ability to execute. If you have started your own business, grown the company, and negotiated a successful merger or acquisition, then you have what it takes to be a successful venture capitalist. Nothing speaks louder than a story of how you achieved great upside.
Get involved with a start-up company
If founding a company isn’t your speed, then go to work for a start-up organization. The hands-on experience you get in a start-up gives you insight into what works … and doesn’t work … in the early stages. According to Seth Levine from VC firms Mobius and Foundry, working for a start-up is extremely helpful in developing the experience you need to be a successful venture capitalist. Keep in mind that each VC firm looks for different industry expertise. Align your industry passion with your career choice to ensure the greatest long-term benefit from your experiences.
Gain experience at early-stage organizations
If you will not be graduating from a top tier business school, then spend those two years instead garnering successful business experience, preferably in early-stage organizations.
The Job Search Digest Private Equity Venture Capital Compensation Report revealed that the pay difference for MBAs is not all that significant. MBAs usually earn higher in base salary, but a smaller bonus, which results in a minor difference in total pay. Considering the two years of lost experience and the cost of the MBA itself, it may not be the best move for your venture capital career.
For more tips on breaking into the venture capital world, visit our Career Advice guide.
Comments on this entry are closed.