How do I handle the pressure of sourcing deals as a new VC analyst?

Question

I recently started as an analyst at a venture capital firm, and one of my key responsibilities is sourcing deals. I’m feeling a lot of pressure because it seems like everything hinges on finding the next big thing, and I’m still learning the ropes. How do you manage the stress of this responsibility, especially when you’re new and still building your network? If anyone has tips on how to approach deal sourcing effectively and how to stay confident despite the pressure, I’d love to hear them.

Answer 1

Hey there,

I know I’m jumping in late here, but I hope you’re still in the game and haven’t let the pressure get to you!

Sourcing as a new VC analyst can feel quite overwhelming because there’s always that unspoken expectation to find the next unicorn. However, no one expects you to uncover the next OpenAI in your first few months. The best VCs play the long game, so don't get stressed out about it.

To get started and become better in the job, focus on building relationships and refining your instincts. Talk to founders, industry experts, and other investors. Not just to source deals, but to learn what makes a great one. Track companies early, stay curious, and keep developing your own thesis on where the market is headed.

The confidence will come from consistency. The more reps you put in, evaluating startups, taking meetings, and understanding what separates a standout founder from an average one, the more natural this will feel.

Hope you’re still at it, and if let me know if you have further questions or need support. I also do career coachings, so maybe that could be an interesting option.

Answer 2

Starting out as a VC analyst and being responsible for deal sourcing can definitely feel overwhelming—like you’re expected to uncover the next unicorn overnight. The pressure is real, but it’s important to keep it in perspective.

First off, remember that deal sourcing is a skill that takes time to develop. No one expects you to have a Rolodex of founders or a sixth sense for winners on day one. Your value comes from learning how to spot interesting companies, ask good questions, and build relationships steadily.

To manage the stress, try to break down deal sourcing into manageable steps rather than seeing it as one big, high-stakes task. For example, focus on:

Building your network gradually: Reach out to founders, attend industry events, get introductions through colleagues, and follow thought leaders in sectors you care about. Don’t be shy to ask for advice or short chats—many people are open to connecting if you’re respectful and curious.
Developing a systematic approach: Set weekly or monthly goals like “identify 10 promising startups” or “have 3 new conversations” instead of just hoping for that one perfect deal.
Learning to evaluate quickly: As you get more exposure, you’ll start to recognize patterns in business models, teams, and markets. Use frameworks to help assess opportunities consistently.
Seeking feedback: Talk regularly with your team about your pipeline, get advice on where to focus, and don’t hesitate to ask for help when you hit roadblocks.

On the confidence side, try to shift your mindset. You’re not expected to find the next big thing alone—you’re part of a team, and your role is one piece of the puzzle. Focus on doing your best with the information and resources you have, keep learning, and don’t be afraid to ask questions.

Finally, take care of yourself. VC can be intense, and the pressure to deliver deals can pile up, but managing stress with good habits like exercise, breaks, and time away will keep you sharp.

Over time, deal sourcing will feel more natural, and your network will grow. Give yourself space to learn and trust that your value as an analyst comes from diligence, curiosity, and persistence—not just landing a headline deal right away.