Ep 018 - Chelsea Zhang, Principal at Equal Ventures

Is Imposter Syndrome actually a good thing?

I sat down with the amazing Chelsea Zhang, Principal at Equal Ventures to share stories and lessons for the next generation of VCs. Almost every young VC struggles with imposter syndrome, but they’re not alone! This episode is jam-packed with comforting advice, harsh realities, tons of passion and even more honesty. If you’re exploring the VC career path, make sure you listen to episode 018 of “New to Venture”!

Key Takeaways:

- Imposter syndrome runs rampant in the VC world. But that’s a good thing! It is a big responsibility to decide who gets money and who doesn’t. It takes a long time to know if you’re good at VC, so having imposter syndrome can keep you in check and indicate that you are actively trying to become a better investor.

- Banking, Consulting and many professional services are very structured. VC is the opposite. The scrappy, quick on their feet, passionate individuals are in a better position to succeed.

- There are so many compounding advantages in venture. Getting in the reps, talking to tons of founders, building genuine connections, creating content, building your brand. These all make you a better investor, but it doesn’t happen overnight. Keep having faith that your efforts will compound and show results down the line! Stay consistent!

- Every VC fund has a very specific criteria when they hire. It is not an industry where the “spray and pray” application method works. Understand your best qualities and recruit specifically for VC funds that are looking for your skillset.

- Ramping up for the first time in VC is extremely intense. VC firms expect you to hit the ground running so try your best to “be a VC” before starting at a firm.

- At the entry level, extroverts have an advantage in VC. Having the energy to talk to founders, investors, and industry experts all day can make the job a lot easier.

Timestamps:

(00:00) - Introductions!

(02:46) - Sports Twitter and Sci-Fi Novels

(07:50) - Chelsea’s Path into Venture

(11:48) - Applicable Skills from Consulting to Venture

(14:41) - Learning Curve from Consulting to Venture

(19:50) - Breaking into VC

(24:09) - Imposter Syndrome

(27:53) - Building Investment Theses

(35:22) - How Your Role Changes with Seniority

(41:00) - Highlights in Venture

(43:00) - Ceremonial Final Qs