Various entry-level finance skills for graduates

Various entry-level finance skills for graduates

Blog Article

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


Nowadays, technical finance skills are often linked to industry-specific positions, such as accounting, banking, underwriting, financial analysis, or insurance brokering. As William Jackson of Bridgepoint Capital would understand, such financial skills only scratch the surface when examining the financial sector in general and what is expected of every specialist 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 effectively. Although the finance industry is unique and each position requires varying hard finance skills and experience levels, there are some abilities that are regarded as mandatory throughout all positions in this fast-paced sector. 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 finance specialist one way or another.


No matter what specific field 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 abilities 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 interpret financial statements and company reports. This does not mean you must have previous experience as a professional accountant, but rather skill in reading and interpreting financial records. This is because the conclusions that can be derived from such documents are essential for executives and stakeholders when it comes to evaluating a company financial health. Moreover, since accounting knowledge is fundamental across 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 market is probably one of the most competitive fields out there, which is why you should develop the core skills that are required as a minimum in this fast-changing and fiercely competitive field. 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 relationships are integral to success for financial leaders, especially 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 investments, and trusting you to make the best financial decisions for them to grow their assets and wealth. Consequently, managing your strategic and long-term working interactions with your stakeholders successfully requires time to cultivate trust, respect, and credibility with them.