Why Potential Beats Experience
When it comes to hiring, many companies still ask the same question: What experience do you already have? But at Risketeers, we ask something different: What potential do you bring?
Diana’s story is a perfect example of why that shift in perspective matters.
Today, she works as a Business Analyst at FMO, the Dutch entrepreneurial development bank. It’s a role where she combines analytical thinking with meaningful impact. But just a year ago, Diana was a recent graduate, searching for her first opportunity in the Dutch job market, one that would allow her to grow into the kind of career she envisioned.
What set her apart wasn’t a long list of credentials. It was something far more valuable: the right attitude, the drive to learn, and a willingness to put in the work.
From Graduate to Risketeer
Originally from Moldova, Diana moved to the Netherlands to study Business Economics and later completed a Master’s in Finance at the University of Groningen. Like many ambitious graduates, she began exploring career options, only to discover that most “entry-level” roles still required two to three years of experience.
It’s a familiar challenge: talented, motivated individuals who are eager to learn but get overlooked simply because they haven’t yet had the chance to prove themselves. That’s where Risketeers comes in.
When Diana applied to our program, we didn’t focus on what was missing from her resume. We focused on what she was ready to build. Her curiosity, determination, and self-awareness stood out immediately, exactly the kind of qualities we believe define true potential.
A Match on Mission and Mindset
From day one, Diana was matched with FMO through our network, an organization where her personal values and professional interests aligned. FMO’s mission to empower entrepreneurs in developing markets resonated strongly with her international background and desire to make an impact.
Rather than spending months “prepping” for a future role, Diana started contributing from the very beginning. She joined FMO as a Business Analyst and began learning by doing, supported by her mentor and the broader Risketeers community.
That’s how we work: we provide structure, coaching, and a professional environment, but our Risketeers are already out there, working at the heart of their client’s business, gaining real-world experience while continuing to grow.
Experience Isn’t the Whole Story
Diana didn’t enter FMO with a long list of professional accomplishments. What she brought instead was a sharp mind, a commitment to learning, and a strong sense of purpose. And that made all the difference.
She quickly demonstrated her ability to take on complex topics, contribute to cross-functional teams, and adapt in a fast-paced, mission-driven organization. It wasn’t about checking every box. It was about showing she had the potential to grow into the role, and beyond it.
Her journey is proof that experience alone doesn’t define success. With the right mindset and the right opportunity, early-career professionals can thrive and create real impact.
A Note to Employers and Starters
To employers: if you only hire for experience, you risk overlooking some of the most driven, adaptable, and high-potential professionals out there. Consider what someone could become with the right support, not just what they’ve already done.
To young professionals: don’t let a lack of experience hold you back. What you bring to the table: your energy, your willingness to learn, and your perspective, matters more than you think.
At Risketeers, we believed in Diana’s potential. And we’ll continue to believe in many others like her. Because when given the chance, potential doesn’t just grow. It thrives.