the great mIgRation

IR folks come from all walks of life.  From CPAs to CFAs to MVPs, IROs come in all different shapes and sizes.  It appears the most recent IRO migration derives from the sell side.  Bedraggled by long hours and marketing trips, sell side folks are finding their way to IR like divining rods in search of a water source. With beads of sweat building up on their brow, they seek solace in the halcyon world of IR.
 
The question is whether they are merely seeking a mirage or a practical career change.  Quite frankly, I don’t know.  But what I do know is that the more diversified an IR agency’s skill set, the better off the agency is in facilitating clients’ needs.
 
To encourage diversification in our field, the following is a top ten list of occupations that I believe serve as the most appropriate preludes prior to joining an IR firm or serving as an internal IRO.
 

10. Psychic

9.  Linebacker

8.  Buoy

7. Anchor

6. Quantum Theorist

5.  Existentialist

4.  Lion Tamer

3.  Anesthesiologist

2.  Masseuse

1.  The little stuffed rabbit that dogs chase at the track

 

— Evan Pondel, Vice President, epondel@pondel.com