Getting a Job in Private Equity with Consulting Background

This person leveraged its consulting and industry experience to get a job in technology focused private equity fund. He shared his experience in an interview


Q: What's your education background?
A: I graduated with a degree in engineering and earned my master degree in engineering in 2002 after working for 2 years.

Q: What kind of work experience do you have before you got into private equity?
A: I had one and a half years' experience in a software company. After I got my master degree in engineering, I joined a top tier consulting firm where I led a technology and telecome project team

Q: What's your job hunting strategy?
A: I did not target big, late-stage buyout funds. Rather I focused more on technology where I have a competitive advantage with my technology and strategy background. I knew that I lacked strong financial background. So I did not spend too much time looking into generalist firms where I had no advantage.

Q: What did you bring to the table?
A: My backgorund in technology and strategy would be an excellent addition to the private equity firm. Consulting prepared me very well for private equity. Bankers come into play with more muscles in finance but we know the competitive dynamics of particular industries. Furthermore, the graduate work that I had done in engineering also helped me stand out among all the candidates.

Q: What's your suggestion for other people who want to get a job in private equity?
A: I would advise those looking for a job in private equity to know their strengths and weakness and figure out where you have competitive advantage over other candidates. Also go into interviews with confidence and determination and show to your employer why do you want to be in private equity and why do you want to work for that employer.