Different entry-level finance skills for graduates

Different entry-level finance skills for graduates

Blog Article

If you are interested in getting into the finance sector, this article is for you.


Nowadays, technical finance skills are commonly linked to industry-specific positions, such as accounting, banking, underwriting, financial evaluation, or insurance brokering. As William Jackson of Bridgepoint Capital would know, such financial abilities merely scratch the surface when examining the financial industry as a whole and what is expected of every professional or candidate in this sector. This is because financial specialists are expected to have a good blend between soft and hard skills that allow them to manage stakeholder relationships successfully. Although the finance industry is unique and each position requires varying hard finance skills and experience levels, there are some abilities that are considered essential throughout all positions in this fast-paced industry. For instance, being comfortable with numbers and quantitative skills is definitely up there as an important skill, as you will likely be working with numbers and statistical datasets as a financial professional at some point.


Regardless of what particular department you operate in, there are a few general finance skills that you will have embedded in your resume, as Edward Tilly of Clear Street would know. Accounting skills is one example of this. Nowadays, employers in the financial sphere look for accounting backgrounds in entry-level candidates, or at least the ability to dissect financial statements and company documents. This doesn't imply you need have previous experience as an expert accountant, but rather skill in reading and analyzing economic documents. This is due to the fact that the insights that can be derived from such reports are essential for business leaders and stakeholders when it relates to assessing a company economic health. Additionally, since accounting knowledge is fundamental throughout a range of diverse financial roles in the industry, companies often to offer competitive compensation for those who have certified accounting qualifications or possess the required accounting abilities.


The finance sector in today's market is probably one of the most competitive fields out there, which is why you should build the core skills that are expected as a minimum in this fast-changing and highly competitive field. For example, relationship-building abilities are probably some of the most crucial soft finance skills out there today. As Hugo Bedford of JM Finn might know, trusted connections are critical to success for finance leaders, especially in times of instability or challenges. As a leader in a financial organization, it's very important to ensure that your relationships with your clients are solid, as these customers are essentially entrusting you with their money, and trusting you to make the best financial decisions for them to grow their assets and resources. As a result, managing your key and long-term professional relationships with your stakeholders effectively requires time to cultivate confidence, respect, and authenticity with them.