How to better prepare for an upcoming VC job?

Congratulations on your upcoming venture into the VC world, especially in such exciting sectors as medtech and mediatech! Based on the most helpful WSO content, transitioning from an entrepreneurial background to VC can be quite advantageous, particularly in early-stage investing. Your experience in creating an MVP, raising capital, and building relationships aligns well with several core aspects of VC work. Here are some skills and areas you might focus on to prepare:

1. Pattern Recognition: Your experience with startups, especially in medtech and mediatech, will be invaluable. VCs often look for individuals who can identify promising startups early. Your hands-on experience could give you a unique perspective in recognizing potential winners.

2. Deal Sourcing and Evaluation: Given your background in building strong relationships with movie studio giants, you likely have a knack for networking and deal sourcing. Enhancing your ability to evaluate startups critically, beyond your initial network, will be crucial. This involves understanding the market, the technology, and the team behind the startup.

3. Operational Insight: Your operational experience from working on your startup and in B2B SaaS sales can be a significant asset. VCs value individuals who can provide high-quality advice to portfolio companies, especially in boardroom settings. Brushing up on best practices in scaling businesses, go-to-market strategies, and operational efficiency could be beneficial.

4. Financial Acumen: While it's true that finance skills are broad and not the primary driver in VC, having a solid foundation can be helpful, especially in deal structuring and valuation. Since you've identified finance as a potential area for improvement, consider focusing on:

   • Venture Financing: Understanding the mechanics of venture deals, including term sheets, cap tables, and exit scenarios. "Venture Deals" by Brad Feld and Jason Mendelson is a highly recommended read.
   • Financial Modeling for Startups: While deep financial modeling is less common in early-stage VC, a basic understanding of how to model growth scenarios, cash burn, and runway can be useful.

5. Continuous Learning: The VC world is fast-paced and constantly evolving. Staying informed about the latest trends in medtech and mediatech, as well as general VC industry trends, is crucial. Regularly reading industry news, following influential VCs and entrepreneurs on social media, and engaging with relevant content can keep you sharp.

6. Networking: Continue to expand your network in the VC and startup ecosystem, especially in London. Attend industry events, join relevant online forums (like Wall Street Oasis), and connect with peers and mentors who can provide insights and advice.

Given your unique background and the transition ahead, focusing on these areas can help bridge any gaps and leverage your strengths effectively in your new VC role. Remember, your entrepreneurial experience and the relationships you've built are significant assets in the VC world. Good luck with your preparation and move to London!

Sources: https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/venture-capital/early-stage-vc-101-5-questions-you-better-be-able-to-answer?customgpt=1, Q&A: 2nd Year Associate at a VC fund - Breaking in With a Fund of Funds + IB background, 20 Most Frequently Asked Questions - London Edition, Breaking into Venture Capital out of Undergrad??, https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/venture-capital/corporate-venture-capital-vs-independent-venture-capital-firms?customgpt=1