Analysts who are hired straight out of college must have previous experience (internship, co-op, summer job) at a hedge fund or in financial research at an investment bank, in another alternative investment sector or with a Fortune 500 corporation. Two to three years of experience as a junior financial analyst is necessary to qualify for positions at top firms.
Successful hedge fund analysts must have a deep understanding of financial and economic markets; excellent quantitative, communication, presentation, and time-management skills; curiosity; a passion for investing and the investment process; the ability to analyze information quickly; a willingness to continue to learn throughout their careers; and the ability to work both independently and as a member of a team.