Leland+ for Venture Capital
Popular on Leland+
Venture Capital Recruiting: What Firms Look for in Candidates
Breaking into venture capital is notoriously competitive—and understanding what firms really value in candidates can give you a critical edge. In this session, Salima K. and Tiana T. will share insights into the qualities, skills, and experiences that top VC firms prioritize when evaluating applicants. You’ll learn how to position your background, highlight the right signals on your resume, and prepare for interviews that test both your technical and investment judgment. Whether you’re just starting to explore VC or actively preparing for recruiting, this session will provide you with actionable strategies to stand out and take the next step toward a career in venture capital.
Frequently Asked Questions About Resume Writing
Many people have asked me a set of questions frequently. These questions will answer some of your questions quickly!
Sample Resume VC Investment Analyst
This is a sample resume template to help break into VC from a foreign/non-traditional background.
Breaking Into VC Without the “Right” Background: What Works, What Doesn’t, What No One Tells You
Breaking into venture capital without an elite pedigree isn’t about luck, it’s about strategy. In this tactical session you’ll learn how VC firms actually evaluate candidates, beyond resumes and brand names, and how to manufacture the signals that matter. We’ll break down: What top firms optimize for (judgment, access, velocity, communication, signal) Why proof-of-work beats credentials, and how to build it How to choose a wedge so people know what you stand for A repeatable networking system that creates opportunity (not “coffee chats”) The hidden rules of VC interviews and internal decision-making A practical 30-day roadmap to become someone who’s already doing the job This isn’t generic career advice. It’s a playbook to build credibility, create leverage, and position yourself as a serious investor, even without the “right” background.
Build Your Personal Brand: Craft Your Story & Stand
A practical workbook that helps professionals define and confidently communicate their personal brand during a career transition.
Trends in VC Hiring: What Firms are Looking For
Breaking into venture capital is notoriously challenging—often less about chasing the biggest brand names and more about finding the right fit. In this session, expert coach Natalie L. unpack the latest trends in VC recruiting and share what firms actually value when evaluating candidates. You’ll learn how the hiring landscape is evolving, what skills and experiences stand out today, and how candidates from non-traditional backgrounds can successfully position themselves for roles in venture. We’ll also discuss practical strategies for networking, building credibility, and navigating a process that’s often informal and relationship-driven. Whether you’re actively recruiting or just exploring a career in VC, this session will give you insider insights and actionable advice to sharpen your approach and increase your chances of breaking in.
Breaking Into VC: What It Takes to Launch Your Career
In this panel, Suzie M. and Katya E. will share what it really takes to land a role in one of the most competitive fields in business. You’ll learn how candidates stand out in the recruiting process, what firms look for beyond the resume, and the skills that set future investors apart. From sourcing and evaluating deals to building networks and demonstrating investment judgment, the discussion will cover the core qualities that matter most. Whether you’re coming from banking, consulting, tech, or just starting your career exploration, this session will give you actionable insights into how to position yourself for success in VC.
How to Crush Your HireVue
This resource reviews common HireVue interview questions and outlines effective approaches for answering them. It focuses on structuring responses, managing timing, and communicating clearly in a recorded interview format.
Start Where You Are: Investing in the Arts as a Pathway to Venture Capital
You don’t need a fund, a finance background, or a Silicon Valley network to start investing—you just need vision and the courage to begin. In this inspirational session, Tiana Tukes (she/her) shares her journey of investing in creativity and culture as a foundation for a career in venture capital. Beginning with her first investment in photographer Tyler Mitchell in 2018, Tiana explores how supporting artists teaches powerful lessons about risk, storytelling, and conviction—the same instincts that drive great venture investors. Joined by potential special guest De’Havia Stewart, an investor at Serena Williams’ venture firm and Broadway investor (Othello, Alicia Keys’ Hell’s Kitchen), the conversation will highlight the many ways to participate in investing—whether that’s in people, art, or startups. Attendees will leave inspired to see that venture capital isn’t a closed world—it’s a creative one. And every investment, no matter how small, can be the start of your journey.
Breaking into Venture Capital - Ask Me Anything
Venture capital is one of the most competitive and relationship-driven industries to break into—but this AMA will give you rare, unfiltered access to someone who’s done it. Jason C. has spent the last decade building and investing in companies, from founding two startups to becoming a partner at Contrary shortly after graduating from Wharton/Lauder. He’s led investments in standout companies like Orchard Robotics, Nomic, and Endeavor AI, and his angel portfolio includes high-growth names such as Warp, Ramp, Clara, and Slingshot AI.
How to Stand Out in VC Recruiting
Venture capital recruiting is relationship-driven, competitive, and often opaque—and standing out requires far more than a strong resume. In this session, you’ll learn how VC firms actually evaluate candidates, what signals investing potential, and how to differentiate yourself through sourcing, market insight, and clear thinking. We’ll cover networking strategies, outreach, interview preparation, and how to demonstrate judgment and curiosity even without prior investing experience.
Technical Interview Questions List
Prepare for your technical interviews with this comprehensive guide. We break down common questions and provide short answers to point you in the right direction.
The Ultimate Cold Outreach Template
Stop sending cold emails that get ignored. Learn how to write effective outreach templates that get responses and land you opportunities.
Behavioral Interview Question Samples
Prepare for your behavioral interviews with this comprehensive guide. We break down the most common questions and give you the tools to craft powerful, memorable answers.
The Perfect Interview Follow-Up Email
Learn how to write a perfect follow-up email after your interview. This template gives you the tools to stand out, make a lasting impression, and land the job.
VC Interview Timeline & Strategy Template
Master the venture capital interview process. This template breaks down the timeline, strategies, and key steps you need to take to land a job at a VC firm.
VC Networking Tracker
Master the art of networking in venture capital. This tracker helps you organize your contacts, follow-up, and build the relationships you need to land a job.
Ask Me Anything: From Founder to Dorm Room Fund & Greycroft Investor
Ever wondered what it's like to go from building a startup in college to investing in them? Join Jessica G.—current Stanford GSB student, former founder of Frönen (acquired), and investor at Dorm Room Fund and Greycroft—for a candid Q&A session on both sides of the table. Whether you're a student founder, exploring VC as a career path, or raising your first round, bring your questions and curiosity. No pitch decks required—just real talk about startups, fundraising, and breaking into venture capital.
Breaking into VC Office Hours
Ready to launch your career in venture capital? Join us for an exclusive workshop with Scott B., a seasoned VC professional and investor at Lightspeed, who will share insider tips on how to break into this competitive industry. Learn what top firms look for in candidates, how to build relevant skills and networks, and strategies to stand out during the recruiting process. Whether you're just starting out or pivoting from another field, this session will give you actionable advice and real-world insights to help you land your first role in venture capital.
Example IB/PE Resume — Evercore IB
See an example resume that's been used for a variety of finance roles. The resume background highlights finance degree at UT Austin and work experience at Evercore and I Squared Capital.
