5 essential tips for getting a job in finances
A finance degree is often a top recommendation to land a job in the financial industry, but the truth is you can get a job without such a degree too.
At the end of the day, an employer wants a committed and smart individual who can get the job done. Besides, some of the world’s most notorious financial experts have managed to get there without an actual degree.
Indeed, a business or finance degree will help with financial analysis and modeling, but there are other skills that can make the difference, such as time management or problem-solving capabilities.
All in all, here are a few ideas to help you demonstrate your skills and abilities to potential employers.
Expand your knowledge
No time for an actual degree? No problem. But joining the financial industry without having any clues at all will not really help. What you can do is educate yourself. Professional knowledge is not always related to degrees. Instead, there are plenty of resources out there.
Get to a local library, and find some manuals online. You can find both free and premium resources. Being self-taught in such an industry will prove to be an excellent attribute to any employer. You will showcase initiative, but also drive and motivation.
Find a mentor
This is one of the most overlooked tips and tricks to land a job in finance. It will basically jump start your career. There are no major rules when it comes to finding a mentor. First, you need someone in a good position. Second, you need someone who can appreciate some of your capabilities.
It sounds difficult, but it is doable. For example, you can find a professor or maybe a good friend or family member. A supervisor from a previous course could be just as handy. Simply approach these people. It sounds unusual, but they will appreciate the fact that you see them as potential mentors. You can read more tips on how to get your dream job by clicking here.
Get an internship
A summer internship, for example, is one of the best ways to get into the industry. In fact, many financial giants look for potential employees during summer internships. Most people who can complete an internship will end up working for these employers in the long run. What’s great about internships is the fact that besides giving you work experience, they also prepare you for job interviews like the Financial Appraisal Test that companies in finances and the bank sector use to select candidates.
Now, getting in could be very tricky if you do not have a college degree. Your best options include volunteer work with professional brokers or even unpaid internships. Just because you are not getting paid, it does not mean that you do it in vain.
Be aggressive in finding a job
Sometimes, you just need to get your foot in the door, meaning you may have to be aggressive with your job search. Focus on different locations, use social media, and keep an eye on forums, groups, and job openings. You simply need to get inside a financial institution.
Keep in mind that your job does not necessarily have to be in a financial role. Just focus on being part of a financial company. Further opportunities and internal openings will open up later on, making room for different career paths.
Get a financial blog
A financial blog could be a great idea to discuss investment ideas and other opportunities. You can also rely on professional social media networks to link up with other professionals and even express your ideas.
It is not going to guarantee a job in finance. But then, it can showcase all sorts of different skills, such as communication, technological dexterity, and financial experience. From many points of view, a financial blog is a way to market yourself.
Of course, this idea requires time and patience. You need to grow your blog, but also ensure you do a good job in terms of content.
Bottom line, as you can see, there are different ways to work your way into the financial industry, with or without a degree. It takes time, hard work, and dedication. Remember, you go with a second chance against those who already have a degree, but landing your dream job is still possible.
