Breaking into venture capital (VC) is one of the most common goals for ambitious students and young professionals. The challenge? Early stage venture capital jobs are scarce, competitive, and rarely advertised. If you’ve been wondering how to get a job in early stage venture capital, the truth is that no degree alone will prepare you—you need industry experience, sharp insights, and genuine passion. Based on 15 years in the business, here are six proven strategies to help you stand out and start your VC career.

1. Don’t Start in Venture Capital Directly

It might surprise you, but the fastest path to VC usually doesn’t begin inside a fund. Instead, work inside the industries you’re passionate about—AI, fintech, biotech, climate, gaming, or consumer tech. By joining a startup or growth-stage company, you’ll gain hands-on experience that makes you valuable to venture capital firms. Investors want to work with people who know what success looks like from the inside.

2. Pick an Industry You’re Obsessed With

To succeed in early stage venture capital, you need conviction and obsession. Choose a sector you can’t stop thinking about—one where you naturally read every headline, test products, and follow founders. Whether it’s climate tech, healthcare, gaming, or space, your curiosity will give you an edge. If it feels like “just a job,” it won’t work. But if you’re truly hooked, you’ll build insights that set you apart from other candidates.

3. Research VCs and Their Portfolios

Once you’ve identified your industry, start mapping out the venture firms actively investing in it. Use tools like Crunchbase or PitchBook to make a target list, then dive deep into their portfolios. Follow the firms on LinkedIn, read their newsletters, and track their investments. Study the companies they back—play the games, test the apps, read user reviews. The more fluent you become in an investor’s world, the more you’ll speak their language.

4. Build Relationships and Prove Your Value

The best way to get noticed in early stage venture capital is by showing you can add value immediately. Instead of asking for a job, bring investors insights they don’t already have—like a new startup in their sector or fresh data on a market trend. Send thoughtful notes, share company leads, and build credibility over time. Many aspiring VCs start as venture scouts, building trust with multiple firms by connecting them with founders and deal flow. Over time, this hands-on approach can open the door to formal opportunities.

Final Takeaway on Getting a VC Job

If you want to break into venture, don’t wait for a job posting—start acting like a VC now. Immerse yourself in an industry you love, study the players, connect with founders, and share your insights with investors. Early stage venture capital is about curiosity, conviction, and relationships. Show those qualities consistently, and you’ll earn your shot in the industry.