Insights from my first 2.5 years as an early-stage VC and how to succeed at the job.
Landing my first job in VC felt like hitting the jackpot. After countless coffee chats, networking events and interviews, as well as a humbling level of rejection, I had finally landed the golden ticket to join this mysterious world of venture investing as an analyst with Distributed Ventures (fka NFP Ventures).
All the case studies and interviews taught me a great amount, but the learning was just getting started. I gained tremendous insight from reading several books on VC and learned from some very generous investors who shared their keys to success.
A special shout-out goes to Shawn, Mike and Adam (thanks team!) who took a chance on me and have invested significantly in my growth and development. Since others have been so generous with their wisdom and support, I’m motivated to share what I’ve learned with others just starting their VC journey (or trying hard to get it started). Regardless of our successes, there are always questions — “Am I doing this right? Am I a good VC?!” given the open-ended and nebulous nature of the role.
As we recently launched Distributed Ventures, a new chapter in our fund’s progression, the time seems right to add a more applied view to the role and pay forward what I’ve learned in my time in VC. Here are my six steps for becoming a successful VC analyst.