At every Future IM/Pact event we hold with professional investors, our founder Yolanda asks what they're looking for in potential candidates. Without fail, the response is always a genuine passion and curiosity for markets. Let’s explore ways you can cultivate and display your passion and stand out from the crowd.

Educate yourself

Education is the first step in demonstrating your passion for investing. Take the time to understand financial concepts, markets, and investment vehicles. Read books, listen to podcasts, attend seminars, and follow reputable financial news outlets to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and developments. There's so much free educational content now available online. Check out all of the teaching and writing from renowned Professor Aswath Damodaran, from Stern School of Business at New York University. Showcasing your knowledge will impress others and boost your confidence in investment discussions.

Networking is key

Networking is crucial for success in the investment industry. Attend Future IM/Pact and other industry events, join professional organisations, and seek out mentors who can guide you. Sign up for our Mentoring Circles (students) or YourEDGE program (early career women) to be paired with mentors working in investments. Engage in meaningful conversations, ask insightful questions, and express your eagerness to learn from seasoned professionals. Building relationships with individuals who share your passion can open doors to valuable opportunities and insights.

Seek our diverse perspectives

Diversity is key in the pursuit of knowledge. Explore different investment strategies, sectors, and asset classes. Engage in discussions with people from different backgrounds and expertise areas to broaden your horizons. Integrating diverse perspectives demonstrates curiosity and critical thinking abilities.

Embrace technology

Technology has revolutionised the investment industry. Stay updated on technological advancements and investing tools, such as Python. Understanding how these innovations shape finance shows your adaptability and forward-thinking mindset. Watch this great skills profile video with an investor to gain a deeper understanding of how Python is used in investment management and how you can learn this essential skill.

Take the initiative

Seek out investment opportunities, like participate in the Future IM/Pact Investment Competition (students) or others on offer, manage your own investment portfolio or start an investment club with like-minded friends and colleagues. Active involvement in investment-related activities showcases your commitment and dedication.

Demonstrate your investment acumen

Showcasing your knowledge and experience by highlighting successful investment projects you spearheaded or insightful market analyses you conducted. Share your track record with confidence, emphasising positive outcomes and lessons learned. Tangible evidence validates your passion and curiosity for investing.

Share your other passions

Good employers want multi-dimensional people who have interests outside of markets and investing. Love fashion? Obsessed with food? Committed to climate change? Your outside passions can often inform the area of investment management you're best suited to and investors love to hear about genuine passion projects from candidates.