5 Things we Learned From WayUp’s “Diversity in Finance” Panel

On November 9th, WayUp hosted an incredible event for students and grads in New York City interested in launching a career in finance.

It was not your average “networking” event. We brought together 60+ future finance leaders (and hundreds more who tuned in on Facebook Live) together for a discussion with three top-notch speakers to discuss how to navigate a career in finance, and what diversity in finance means today. Our speakers were very candid with the audience and gave genuine, unfiltered advice on everything from finding a mentor to how to work with people from various backgrounds.

Want a quick recap of some of the best advice and knowledge the speakers shared? Read below!

1. A mentor can block for you, but you need to score the touchdown.
Kellen Carter, the Chief Compliance Officer at investment firm ARK Invest, told students that while mentors can help you find opportunities, it’s up to you to seize them. He gave a football analogy to explain this by saying that, “a mentor can ‘block’ for you, and get you to the five-yard line, but it’s up to you to score a touchdown.”

Mentors can undoubtedly open doors and give excellent guidance, but they can’t nail down a new job or internship for you. It’s up to you to take advantage of the opportunities and advice they provide.

2. Spend time cultivating a network of peers in your industry.
General Catalyst venture capitalist and Rough Draft Ventures founder Peter Boyce II told guests that the worst advice he ever got was from someone who told him not to spend time with other people in venture capital. “Friendships and relationships are vital in the venture community. Sharing notes and insights is a great way to collaborate to find the best investments, even though it’s a competitive space.”

Even though you might be going after the same deal, job, or client, it’s always worth creating a network of peers that you trust who you can rely on. Maintaining quality professional relationships becomes especially key for when you are ready to make your next move!

3. Understanding different cultures and norms is a must in today’s globalized world.
Chris Oglesby, an investment banking associate at Citi, told the audience that Citi is one of the most global organizations he has ever seen. “Citi is a massive company with offices all over the world. I speak to people on my team across many different time zones. It’s critical to understand cultural norms and customs of all of these places to accommodate others and foster a productive working environment.”

Working for a global company comes with lots of perks, but it’s vital to be respectful and understanding of your coworkers—no matter where they are from or what they look like.

4. Push value before you take value.
Peter Boyce II gave some honest advice on cold outreach. “No one drinks more coffee than I do, but when you are asking someone for coffee, give them something of value. Don’t just take, but give.”

All too often in networking, people will ask for a favor or a connection without giving anything in return. To be a more genuine (and effective) networker, offer up feedback or an idea in your outreach. If you can prove that you are insightful and helpful from the start, people will be much more receptive to your outreach.

5. Work twice as hard as the next person.
Kellen Carter graduated from law school in 2010, when the job market was at a low point. However, he believes he was able to land a role at the SEC because he hustled more than anyone else. “Even in a down market you can make it happen. You have to believe, and work twice as hard as the next person.”

Kellen believes that perseverance is the key to success. He’s a big believer that failure should motivate you to work harder, and that rejection should motivate you to improve, not give up.

Want more? Check out the full panel discussion here: