Different entry-level finance skills for grads

Different entry-level finance skills for grads

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If you are interested in breaking into the financial industry, then post is for you.


Nowadays, technical finance skills are commonly associated with industry-specific positions, such as accounting, banking, underwriting, financial evaluation, or insurance brokerage. As William Jackson of Bridgepoint Capital would understand, such finance skills only scratch the surface when examining the financial industry as a whole and what is expected of every professional or applicant in this industry. This is due to the fact that financial professionals are expected to have an excellent balance between soft and hard abilities that allow them to manage stakeholder relationships effectively. Although the finance sector is unique and each role requires different hard finance skills and experience levels, there are some skills that are regarded as mandatory throughout all positions in this fast-paced industry. For example, being comfortable with numbers and data-driven skills is definitely up there as an important skill, 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 a few general finance skills that you must have embedded in your CV, as Edward Tilly of Clear Street would know. Accounting abilities is one example of this. Nowadays, employers in the financial sphere look for accounting backgrounds in graduates, or at least the capacity to dissect financial statements and company documents. This doesn't imply you need have previous experience as a professional accountant, but rather skill in reading and analyzing economic records. This is because the conclusions that can be derived from such documents are essential for business leaders and stakeholders when it relates to assessing an organization's financial health. Additionally, since accounting knowledge is fundamental throughout a range of different financial roles in the industry, companies often to offer competitive salaries for those who have certified accounting qualifications or possess the required accounting skills.


The financial sector in today's world 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 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 would know, reliable connections are integral to success for finance leaders, particularly in times of uncertainty or complexity. As a leader in a financial organization, it's very crucial to ensure that your relationships with your clients are strong, as these clients are essentially relying on you with their investments, and counting on you to make the best financial choices for them to grow their capital and wealth. Consequently, building your strategic and long-term working relationships with your stakeholders successfully requires time to build trust, respect, and credibility with them.