Different entry-level finance skills for grads

Different entry-level finance skills for grads

Blog Article

Learn some examples of financial organizations and what they look for in candidates.


Nowadays, technical finance skills are commonly associated with industry-specific roles, such as accounting, banking, underwriting, financial analysis, or insurance brokerage. As William Jackson of Bridgepoint Capital might know, such financial skills only 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 finance 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 different hard finance skills and experience levels, there are some skills that are considered mandatory throughout all positions in this fast-paced industry. For instance, being comfortable with numbers and quantitative analysis is absolutely up there as a priority ability, as you will likely be dealing with numbers and statistical datasets as a financial specialist one way or another.


No matter what particular department you work in, there are some general finance skills that you will 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 entry-level candidates, or at least the capacity to dissect financial statements and company documents. This doesn't imply you must have previous experience as a professional accountant, but rather skill in reading and analyzing financial records. This is because the insights that can be derived from such reports are crucial for executives and stakeholders when it relates to assessing an organization's financial health. Additionally, since accounting knowledge is fundamental throughout a range of different financial positions in the industry, companies tend to offer competitive salaries for those that have professional accounting credentials or demonstrate the necessary accounting abilities.


The financial industry in today's market is probably one of the most competitive fields out there, which is why you must develop the essential abilities that are required as a minimum in this dynamic and highly competitive sector. For example, relationship-building skills are probably some of the most crucial soft finance skills out there today. As Hugo Bedford of JM Finn might know, trusted relationships 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 strong, as these customers are essentially entrusting you with their money, and trusting you to make the best financial decisions for them to maximize 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.