Professional Networking
Private Equity and Venture Capital Networking Tips
The private equity job market is very competitive and it may be difficult to break into the industry. While a large part of securing an interview at a private equity or venture capital firm is having the proper credentials (i.e. MBA and financial work experience), another important aspect is networking.By putting in some extra work networking you make a contact who leads you to a job opening, or you may just learn valuable tips from other private equity or venture capital professionals. No matter your field, networking is critical for advancing in the financial world. Here are a few basic networking opportunities you may have overlooked:
- Linkedin.com: The biggest and probably the best networking website is LinkedIn. This website's sole purpose is to connect professionals and make business contacts, so having an updated and active LinkedIn account is an easy networking tool that often leads to great contacts. Make sure that your profile is professional and shows all your skills and past work experience. A photo will lend some personality to your profile too. Join the private equity linkedin group, if you haven't already.
- Facebook.com: Another networking website that is Facebook. Although Facebook has a more social networking focus, many business people use this site as a tool for professional networking. Word of caution: if you use Facebook for its social features, like connecting with college friends, then make sure there are no comments or photos on your profile that you wouldn't be comfortable with a potential employer seeing.
- IFA Life: A reader suggested another networking tool, IFA Life,a new professional networking website for financial planners and investment professionals. The site is predominantly in the U.K. but is expanding to the U.S. too.
- Join forums: The internet provides so many opportunities to connect with other private equity and venture capital industry contacts, and forums are great for this. The Private Equity Forum is connected to the 9,000+ member private equity group and is a good place to ask questions and meet people. There are also many forums exclusive to venture capital or angel investing.
- Attend events: I live in New York City so there is always a networking event or private equity lecture to attend. This goes for most major cities too, especially areas with major financial sectors like Chicago and Boston. Sites like this, are great for keeping up with events. Also, check out online conferences "webinars" that are often led by well-known speakers.
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Link to This Resource: Professional Networking
http://privateequityblogger.com/2008/09/networking.html