Different entry-level finance skills for grads

Different entry-level finance skills for grads

Blog Article

If you are interested in breaking into the finance industry, 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 brokerage. As William Jackson of Bridgepoint Capital might know, such financial skills merely scratch the surface when analyzing the finance sector in general and what is expected of every professional or candidate in this sector. This is because financial professionals are expected to have a good blend between soft and hard skills that allow them to manage stakeholder relationships effectively. Although the finance sector is unique and each position requires different hard finance skills and experience levels, there are some abilities that are considered essential across all roles in this dynamic industry. For instance, being comfortable with numbers and data-driven skills is definitely up there as an important ability, as you will likely be dealing with numbers and statistical datasets as a financial professional at some point.


Regardless of what particular department you work in, there are some 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, companies in the finance sector look for accounting backgrounds in graduates, or at least the capacity to dissect financial statements and company documents. This doesn't mean you must have previous experience as an expert accountant, but rather proficiency in reading and interpreting financial documents. This is due to the fact that the conclusions that can be derived from such documents are essential for executives and stakeholders when it comes to evaluating an organization's financial health. Moreover, since accounting knowledge is fundamental throughout a range of different financial positions in the industry, companies tend to offer competitive compensation for those that have professional accounting credentials or demonstrate the necessary accounting abilities.


The financial industry in today's world is probably one of the most competitive fields out there, which is why you must develop the essential skills that are required as a minimum in this fast-changing and fiercely competitive sector. For instance, relationship-building skills are probably some of the most crucial soft finance skills out there today. As Hugo Bedford of JM Finn might know, reliable relationships are integral to success for financial leaders, particularly in times of uncertainty or challenges. As a leader in a financial organization, it's extremely important to ensure that your relationships with your clients are strong, as these customers are essentially entrusting you with their money, and counting on you to make the best economic choices for them to grow their capital and wealth. Consequently, building your strategic and long-term working interactions with your stakeholders successfully takes time to build trust, respect, and credibility with them.