Buy-side vs. Sell-side analysts

If there are any buy/sell side analysts or associates on here, what steps did you take professionally to get to your position? Where did you start out, how long did you stay in each role, what is your current compensation? Would you say buy side or sell side research is easier to get into? And please note where you’re based, as I’d like to see Canadian and U.S. differences, as well as regional differences.