Hi All,
As a post-MBA analyst at a long/short equity fund, I’m interested in hearing thoughts from anyone here that has worked on the buy-side about how they built credibility and a track record, not only within the firm but also in a way where others outside their firm could recognize their talent. I understand that most firms won’t give you a portable track record, in which case if you are looking to interview elsewhere in the future, how can you “prove” to somebody that you’re good? I know there are various ways to keep track of your ideas (i.e. posting it on some blog or site such as SeekingAlpha or SumZero), but what about situations where you told your portfolio manager NOT to take a position in something and simply doing nothing was really the best course of action?
Also, for any of you that have hired experienced analysts in the past, how do you determine who you want to hire other than the quality of the ideas they’re pitching you? Will you have known the candidate you’re interviewing over an extended period of time? Will you have checked with their references or other people in the industry that may know them? How would you expect the potential analyst candidate to substantiate the quality of their calls?
I’m happy with my role and the resources that have been afforded to me in my current role. Like many of you, I’m trying to figure out how I can get up the responsibility/knowledge curve as fast as possible, and ultimately get compensated accordingly (fully realizing that sometimes people have to look outside their immediate firm in order to get paid). I’m also trying to get smart about how experienced hiring works on the buy-side for roles that are below the portfolio manager level. It’s because I have always planned my career with a vision for where I want to be 12-24 months out, so I’d appreciate any perspectives from experienced people here. I’m also reachable at numi.advisory@gmail.com if anyone wants to communicate with me, provide any personalized advice, talk stocks, whatever. Thanks.