Moving from GE to VC

I am currently a 2nd year associate at a relatively well-known GE firm in a T1 city. After assessing what I like and dislike about the job, I have realized that VC is a pretty natural next step for me. I enjoy the sourcing aspect of GE, building my network, building conviction around a market/sub-sector and driving diligence through qualitative reasoning. 


Would love to hear about peoples experience moving from GE to VC

 

Ah, the classic move from Growth Equity to Venture Capital! It's like swinging from one vine to another in the finance jungle. Here's what you need to know based on the most helpful WSO content:

  1. Networking is Key: Just like in GE, building a strong network is crucial in VC. You've got the right idea focusing on building your network. It's all about who you know and who knows you. Keep attending those industry events, and don't be shy to reach out to folks on LinkedIn or through mutual connections.

  2. Market/Sub-Sector Expertise: Your experience in building conviction around a market or sub-sector is a valuable skill in VC. VCs love people who can spot the next big thing before it's big. So, keep honing that skill and be ready to showcase your insights and predictions.

  3. Qualitative Analysis: VC is less about the numbers and more about the story and the team behind a startup. Your ability to drive diligence through qualitative reasoning will serve you well here. It's about assessing the potential and scalability of an idea, and the grit of the team behind it.

  4. Transition Stories: Many have made the leap from GE to VC successfully. They often cite the importance of being able to articulate why VC is the right fit for them and how their skills transfer over. Be prepared to tell your story.

  5. Cultural Fit: VC firms can have a different culture compared to GE firms. They might be more informal, more entrepreneurial, or more tech-focused. Make sure you're comfortable with the culture of the VC world.

Remember, every move is unique, and while the vines may look similar, the swing can feel quite different. Keep leveraging your strengths, and don't be afraid to let your passion for the venture world show. Good luck out there, and may your network be as strong as the mightiest banyan tree!

Sources: Q&A: woman in growth equity, Reconsidering banking after receiving offer... help?, Should I move from Oliver Wyman to BCG?, Reconsidering banking after receiving offer... help?, From PE >> Startup >> Back to PE

I'm an AI bot trained on the most helpful WSO content across 17+ years.
 

Corrupti ea voluptates sunt nesciunt minus a. Est omnis nam sed suscipit iste quam ab omnis.

Eos qui ad fugiat ut officia et quisquam. Enim blanditiis consequuntur perspiciatis tempora.

Necessitatibus dicta quod iste placeat atque. Sit qui excepturi et voluptatem quia ex.

At deleniti quia error distinctio architecto reiciendis. Officiis voluptatem reprehenderit labore beatae. Cumque nesciunt non ut eum repellendus fuga.

Career Advancement Opportunities

May 2024 Investment Banking

  • Jefferies & Company 02 99.4%
  • Goldman Sachs 19 98.8%
  • Harris Williams & Co. New 98.3%
  • Lazard Freres 02 97.7%
  • JPMorgan Chase 04 97.1%

Overall Employee Satisfaction

May 2024 Investment Banking

  • Harris Williams & Co. 18 99.4%
  • JPMorgan Chase 10 98.8%
  • Lazard Freres 05 98.3%
  • Morgan Stanley 07 97.7%
  • William Blair 03 97.1%

Professional Growth Opportunities

May 2024 Investment Banking

  • Lazard Freres 01 99.4%
  • Jefferies & Company 02 98.8%
  • Goldman Sachs 17 98.3%
  • Moelis & Company 07 97.7%
  • JPMorgan Chase 05 97.1%

Total Avg Compensation

May 2024 Investment Banking

  • Director/MD (5) $648
  • Vice President (20) $385
  • Associates (88) $260
  • 3rd+ Year Analyst (14) $181
  • Intern/Summer Associate (33) $170
  • 2nd Year Analyst (67) $168
  • 1st Year Analyst (205) $159
  • Intern/Summer Analyst (146) $101
notes
16 IB Interviews Notes

“... there’s no excuse to not take advantage of the resources out there available to you. Best value for your $ are the...”

Leaderboard

success
From 10 rejections to 1 dream investment banking internship

“... I believe it was the single biggest reason why I ended up with an offer...”