Landing an entry level investment analyst job right out of college can seem daunting, but is very achievable if you prepare correctly. As an entry level position, investment analyst roles generally require strong analytical, financial modeling, and communication skills rather than years of professional experience. To be competitive for these coveted roles, students should focus on developing technical abilities, obtaining relevant internship experience, networking extensively, and tailoring their resumes specifically for investment analyst openings. Securing an entry level investment analyst position takes dedication, but opens doors to a rewarding career in finance.
Excel modeling and financial statement analysis are vital entry level investment analyst skills
While investment analyst positions vary by firm, strong Excel modeling skills are universally valued. Fluency building DCF models, precedent transactions analyses, and discounted dividend models is expected for most entry level roles. Similarly, you will need a solid grasp of how to analyze financial statements to assess companies’ financial health and valuation. Taking courses in business school or self-study that reinforce these technical abilities is hugely beneficial for positioning yourself as a competitive investment analyst candidate with limited professional work experience.
Completing finance-related internships greatly boosts entry level investment analyst hiring potential
Though not absolutely required, having some form of internship experience at an investment bank, asset management firm, or other financial services company is extremely helpful for breaking into investment analyst jobs. These positions allow you to familiarize yourself with industry culture, network with professionals who may later hire you, and most importantly gain exposure to practical skills like modeling, company diligence, stock pitches, etc. Investment analyst internships should be a top priority for those hoping to transition directly into full-time roles.
Utilizing university career resources maximizes opportunities for entry level investment analyst achievement
Your school’s career center provides invaluable assistance with getting your foot in the investment analyst door. Counselors can review your resume to ensure you effectively showcase relevant coursework and skills for these jobs. Further, they facilitate connections to alumni in analyst positions who can provide insider application advice and referrals. Finally, campus recruiting events hosted by financial firms are target-rich environments for making contacts and landing interviews, so be sure to regularly check for investment analyst openings advertised through your university.
Customizing resumes and networking messages is required for entry level investment analyst search success
Though exhausting, custom tailoring your resume and outreach messages for each investment analyst application is essential. This includes incorporating keywords from the position’s qualifications section and quantifying achievements that map to the required competencies. Mass blasting a generic resume and cover letter dramatically reduces your odds of progressing through screening algorithms and impressing hiring managers. Similarly, when networking you must frame your experience specifically to match what investment analysts do on the job day-to-day, rather than just generically expressing interest in the finance industry.
Breaking into finance as an entry level investment analyst with minimal experience requires serious work ethic and calculated career maneuvering. However, by focusing efforts on building in-demand modeling and analysis abilities, securing relevant internships, fully leveraging campus recruiting resources, and meticulously customizing application materials, new graduates can successfully land these rewarding starter roles in asset management and investment banking.