Zero Modeling Experience, 3 Weeks Before Corp Dev Role - How Would You Prep?

To get you ready for your corporate development analyst role in just three weeks, here’s a focused game plan based on the most helpful WSO content:

1. Prioritize Financial Modeling and Excel Skills

• WSO’s Modeling & Valuation Bootcamp (2 Days): This is a highly recommended crash course that covers Excel, M&A, 3-statement modeling, DCF, comps, and LBOs. It’s designed to get you up to speed quickly and is tailored for beginners or those with limited experience.
• Private Equity Master Package: This includes LBO modeling and the PE deal process, which is directly relevant to your PE-backed corporate development role.
• Venture Capital Bootcamp (4 Hours): If your company deals with cap tables or startup investments, this course will help you understand ARR, cap table modeling, and other VC-specific metrics.

2. Training the Street vs. WSO Courses

• Training the Street: Their Core Comprehensive program is solid, but at $1,250 per day, it’s a significant investment. If you’re considering it:
  • Days 1-3 (Financial Modeling, Comparables, and DCF) are the most critical for your role.
  • Days 4-5 (Merger Consequences and LBO Analysis) are valuable but might be overkill for a beginner in corporate development.
• WSO Courses: These are more cost-effective and flexible. You can access them online, allowing you to revisit materials as needed. Plus, they’re designed with practical, job-ready skills in mind.

3. Supplement with Self-Study

• Excel Mastery: Spend time mastering Excel shortcuts, formulas, and formatting. You’ll need to be quick and efficient in building and auditing models.
• Accounting Basics: Brush up on financial statements, key metrics (EBITDA, FCF, etc.), and how they tie together. Resources like Accounting for Dummies or online tutorials can help.
• DCF and LBO Practice: Use free templates or WSO’s resources to practice building basic models. Even if you don’t perfect them, understanding the logic will help.

4. Realistic Expectations

• No course will make you a modeling expert in three weeks, but they can give you a solid foundation. The key is to focus on the most relevant skills (Excel, 3-statement modeling, DCF, and comps) and build confidence in those areas.
• Be prepared to learn on the job. Many corporate development teams expect a learning curve, especially for analysts.

5. Recommended Action Plan

• Week 1: Complete WSO’s Modeling & Valuation Bootcamp or Training the Street’s Days 1-3. Focus on Excel and 3-statement modeling.
• Week 2: Dive into DCF and comparables analysis. Use WSO’s Private Equity Master Package for LBO basics if relevant.
• Week 3: Practice building simple models from scratch. Review key accounting concepts and polish your presentation skills.

6. Final Thoughts

• If budget is a concern, WSO’s online courses offer better value and flexibility compared to Training the Street.
• Stay consistent and practice daily. Even 2-3 hours a day can make a huge difference in three weeks.
• Remember, confidence and a willingness to learn go a long way. You’ve already proven yourself by landing the role—now it’s about building on that momentum.

Good luck, and don’t forget to crush it on day one!

Sources: Is this well below street and should I take it? (London), S&T Training Courses, What job to take if you best want to ride the generative AI wave over the next couple of decades. Serious question.