What would I look for if I was recruiting a financial modeller?
Beyond the obvious, such as a love of maths (and especially algebra), I would also try to find out more about the potential modeller’s views on the following:
Music
Would a competent musician waste time with a mouse? I think not. Musicians will be prepared to practise shortcuts and are good at mastering basics and applying these skills to more complex structures.
Outdoors
There is no better place to think about and solve circular references than in the open air. Light bulb moments occur only when you have a clear head.
Discipline
Does it matter if apostrophes are used incorrectly? Call me a pedant, but I have a serious issue with this. A lack of attention to detail is the cause of many modelling mistakes.
Emails
Well, what can I say? An unhealthy addiction to phones and emails seriously affects concentration. A self-confessed multi-tasker won’t be much good as a modeller.
Logic
Modellers are ultimately problem solvers and should love all puzzles. Every day I tackle a cryptic crossword, a kakuro, a sujiko and a suguru. Is it a coincidence that I love financial modelling too?
Listening
The most effective modellers on my courses are undoubtedly those who listen and are open to new ideas. Good listeners are fast learners. Top performers in all disciplines listen to advice and learn from their mistakes.
Efficiency
Efficiency is the ratio of useful work done to the total energy expended. Many modellers over-complicate issues and I have seen some incredibly inefficient formulae in my time. One had 62 sets of brackets, 16 functions and 60 cell references and, of course, there was a far simpler solution.
Resourcefulness
Modelling is a creative process. Those who can think outside the box and use their imagination will be able to come up with clever solutions.
Speed
There is speed and there is haste. Ever heard of the hare and the tortoise?