Michael Hsu on The 3 Most Important Qualities of an Investment Banker
Michael Hsu of Los Angeles, CA, holds a degree in Business Administration, Finance and has worked as an Associate for various financial entities while working on his MBA. He has many hobbies, such as being an instrument-rated pilot, but he also enjoys helping businesses manage their wealth for the corporation’s benefit.
The role of an investment banker is to help clients raise capital by investing in markets or selling equity in the company. To be a successful investment banker requires not only the right educational background but also three fundamental qualities, both soft and hard skills, that can propel an individual to greater heights when pursuing a career in corporate finance.
Develop These 3 Critical Investment Banker Skills
Numerical and analytical skills
Financial intellect is, of course, a requirement to excel in the financial world. But Michael Hsu feels it is the ability to think critically that matters. Critical thinking is disciplined thinking that gathers information from several sources and by many means before concluding.
One must analyze financial data by observing markets and economies, experience, reflection, reasoning, and communications gleaned from others. When these analytical skills are combined with good financial or numerical data, it is possible to become a top-notch financial advisor.
Excellent team leadership skills
The old saying, ‘no man is an island,’ is truer today than ever. Investment bankers must show excellent team leadership and be willing to share good information that should be shared – when it should be shared. Today’s business leaders are no longer authoritative or dictatorial. The best leaders are team players, says Michael Hsu.
Being a positive team player, listening to subordinates, and looking at the big picture, which is the financial success of your clients, should always guide your business day.
Project and time management skills
And finally, the nuts and bolts of corporate finances must be managed. The time and effort you put into your projects will always reflect on the outcomes of your investing decisions. With enough experience, good investment bankers can be more creative in the choices they make and the projects they take on.
Good time management skills mean not only meeting deadlines but also means being more productive and more efficient, according to Michael Hsu. Good time management tends to relieve stress rather than add to it. You’ll find more time for your family, friends, and hobbies when you take an organized approach to each project and manage your time accordingly.
Michael Hsu knows that a career in investment banking can be lucrative, but only when your clients trust your knowledge, rely on your judgment, and depend on your recommendations. Pay attention to those social skills that help you get along with coworkers and feel comfortable around clients – because many successes in business are born out of personality rather than skill.
