Nichole Wischoff, a financial expert, transitioned from a banking career at Citi to founding her venture capital firm. Her journey is marked by a determination to find work that aligns with her passion and lifestyle.
Nichole Wischoff’s transition from banking to the world of startups was driven by her need for a more fulfilling career. Despite earning a substantial income at Citi, her role in project finance left her feeling confined and overwhelmed by long hours and a rigid work structure. While the work was intellectually stimulating, the lack of personal satisfaction led her to seek new opportunities.
Residing in the Bay Area presented Wischoff with a chance to immerse herself in the tech community, primarily influenced by friends and her husband, who worked in the industry. This encouragement, coupled with her exposure to tech careers, prompted her to explore roles outside traditional banking.
Her initial move into tech was facilitated by a fintech company, where she secured a role that significantly boosted her earnings by approximately 40%. This new path paved the way for her to engage in angel investments and eventually establish Wischoff Ventures, focusing on early-stage startups.
Wischoff’s experiences underscore the flexibility and variety she finds in the startup ecosystem compared to more structured corporate environments. Startups allowed her to engage in diverse roles such as business development and fundraising, enabling her to capitalize on her dynamic skill set.
Recognizing her preference for hands-on involvement over boardroom responsibilities, Wischoff refrains from taking board positions. Instead, she is driven by the excitement of helping startups launch and thrive. Her venture capital work, while challenging, offers her the adrenaline and satisfaction of achieving tangible progress.
Wischoff likens the dedication required in venture capital to marathon running, highlighting the necessity of daily perseverance and resilience. The constant need to pitch and face rejections in venture capital is akin to the incremental efforts required in long-distance running.
Nichole Wischoff’s career journey reflects a deliberate choice to find professional environments that offer personal and professional satisfaction. Her story emphasizes the importance of aligning career paths with one’s values and passions.
Source: Businessinsider