At the R.I.S.E. Investment Forum here at the University of Dayton today, executives from all corners of the financial services industry addressed an audience of 1,600 college students interested in entering the business. While much of the emphasis and discussion focused on investment management, tucked into the conversations here were some pearls of wisdom for students about getting a foot in the door - and advice for how to get the most out of a first job:
John Rogers, chairman, chief executive officer, chief investment officer, Ariel Investments: "I tell young people interested in the business all the time to look for opportunities within their own university endowment offices."
Even if it is volunteer, part-time or internship work, "this could be the greatest stepping stone to a lucrative and fulfilling career path in financial services," Mr. Rogers added.
Bob Doll, Vice chairman, chief investment officer of global equities, BlackRock: "If you can get a job that is as close, ideally, to what you want to be doing - take it. Do not wait for the perfect job."
David Kudla, CEO and investment strategist, Mainstay Capital Management: "Always develop relationships. Meet with and talk to as many people as possible. When someone gives you the opportunity to learn from them, soak up as much as you can. Don't be afraid to ask people about what they do either. Use your first three-to -five years to really figure it all out, by being as resourceful as possible."
Adam Blitz, chief investment officer and principal, Evanston Asset Management: "Just get in the door and then work your hardest. Distinguish yourself...And then make sure you catch someone's attention. It's really simple. There's no magic formula."
John Schaefer, principal and portfolio manager, The Townsend Group:: "Be eager to learn...and look for mentors. A lot of people gravitate to big firms. But it's ultimately going to boil down to who you are working with."
Having the ability to "work shoulder-to-shoulder" with someone who runs their own business at a smaller firm is a "tremendous opportunity," Mr. Schaefer added. "And don't be afraid to fail."
Daryl Dewbrey, executive director and head of business development, UBS Financial Services: "You have to enjoy what you are dong. Having a job and having a career are two different things...Your first job is not an indication of what your entire career will be like."
Mr. Dewbrey added: "You do not want to spend the next 30 years of your life doing something you don't enjoy...Don't worry about that first decision. Find something you enjoy."
Christopher Greer, global head of capital introduction, Citi Prime: "When you get your first job, stay there five years and don't budge....Stay there and stay focused. Learn something."
