Hedge fund managers are constantly working to deliver the best investment results they can for their clients. It is a lucrative job opportunity that has many potential perks. This article is going to explain how to become a hedge fund manager using eight simple tips.
1: Get the Proper Educational Background
The first tip to remember when learning how to become a hedge fund manager is to focus on getting the proper educational background. The majority of available hedge fund manager job postings require at least a Bachelor’s degree in a finance related field. To further increase your chances of gaining employment, consider going for your Master’s degree instead.
Some ideal areas of study that you can focus on include accounting, statistics, and economics. A more well-rounded approach is an MBA degree as well. Additional professional certifications are also strongly preferred by many investment firms.
2: Make Sure You Understand the Responsibilities
There is a broad range of interconnected job titles in the finance community. When Learning how to become a hedge fund manager, it helps to really understand the job responsibilities associated with the position. Hedge fund managers develop new and innovative investment strategies in an effort to maximize profits for their clients.
They are also responsible for making adjustments to their designated fund during crucial market changes to minimize potential losses. In addition to basic fund management duties, they also regularly handle other tasks.
Among the most critical tasks are meeting new clients, hosting investment seminars, and other activities relating to advertising and public relations. The position is extremely competitive and very results driven which is why it is so important to fully understand its core roles.
3: Stay Current on Hedge Fund Developments
The next step you should take when learning how to become a hedge fund manager is to stay current on the latest hedge fund developments. This step is crucial during the education portion of your life and can ultimately help guide you in the proper direction in terms of future employment prospects.
Some great sources of information include free hedge fund newsletters, articles and books relating to current hedge fund trading techniques, and investment clubs in your area. Use the information you learn to help further your own potential future investment ideas. When it comes time for a potential interview, you will be well versed in a variety of relevant background topics.
4: Consider a Hedge Fund Mentor
The next tip to remember when finding out how to become a hedge fund manager is that you should consider a hedge fund mentor. This option is a great fit for young individuals who are just starting with school. These options are unpaid and are meant to give you a bit of background information about the profession. They allow you to shadow a real hedge fund manager and take part in their daily routine.
To find a potential mentor, consider sending a professional email out to investment groups. State the reason why you are looking forward to this opportunity and explain the types of things you would like to learn from the experience. It is important to have as much open availability as possible and to consistently reach out to new firms until you find someone willing to spend some time with you.
5: Moving onto Internships
Once you are close to finishing your degree, you should now be ready to move onto internships. The best sources of potential hedge fund internships are likely your college’s career area. Another great source to consider is your professors who teach economics related courses.
Internships can last anywhere from one to six months. The best matches will be on site where you can work directly with experienced hedge fund managers and get a feel for managing a working trading platform. If you’re offered a remote position, do not hesitate to accept since it can still serve as a valuable networking opportunity in the future.
6: Identify Your Niche
The next step to consider when finding out how to become a hedge fund manager is to identify your niche. At this point, you should now be finished with your college degree and have a great deal of background knowledge. If you have completed your mentoring and internships, you should also have established some professional contacts.
Hedge fund managers work with very specific business sectors or areas. A prime example is emerging markets. If you want to work in an area like this, consider publishing your own white papers that cover an interesting view or development in the area. Save these papers and keep copies for your resume. Once you’ve identified the niche market that you want to work with, you’re ready for the next step.
7: Search Effectively
You should now be at the point where you can search for current hedge fund manager job openings. The key to being successful is to learn to search effectively. Your first area that you should look for reliable employment leads is your network of professional contacts that you have established.
The places that you have interned at are great options to start. If they do not have any current openings, do not hesitate to ask if you can use them as a professional reference. The next area to search is job boards and other employment portals.
Once those options have been exhausted, it is time to move onto cold calling and emailing. Remember always to be professional and create a unique pitch that is specific for each hedge fund you are contacting.
8: Don’t Be Afraid to Climb Up
Hedge fund managers are responsible for a wide range of important business decisions. Even with a professional background and the required education, it is difficult to land these positions. A great alternative is to work your way up from a more entry-level position.
A popular position that is much easier to land is the portfolio manager. These jobs report directly to the hedge fund manager and can serve as great stepping stones for recent college graduates.
Bottom Line
You should now have a basic understanding of how to become a hedge fund manager. Remember to take your time and develop your network of professional contacts. These contacts will play a key role in your future applications at investment firms all over the world.
