Different entry-level finance skills for grads

Different entry-level finance skills for grads

Blog Article

If you are interested in getting 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 brokering. As William Jackson of Bridgepoint Capital would understand, such financial skills only scratch the surface when examining the financial industry in general and what is expected of every professional or applicant in this industry. This is due to the fact that finance specialists 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 considered essential across all roles in this dynamic sector. For example, being comfortable with numbers and data-driven analysis is absolutely 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.


Regardless of what specific 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 interpret financial statements and company reports. This does not mean you need have previous experience as an expert accountant, but rather proficiency in reading and analyzing economic documents. This is due to the fact that the insights that can be derived from such documents are essential for business leaders and stakeholders when it relates to evaluating a company economic health. Moreover, since accounting knowledge is fundamental across a range of diverse financial roles in the industry, companies often to offer competitive compensation for those who have certified accounting credentials or possess the required accounting skills.


The finance sector in today's world is probably one of the most competitive fields out there, which is why you should build the essential skills that are required as a minimum in this fast-changing and fiercely competitive field. For instance, relationship-building abilities 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 financial leaders, particularly in times of uncertainty or complexity. As a leader in a financial organization, it's extremely crucial to ensure that your relationships with your clients are strong, as these clients are essentially relying on you with their money, 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 interactions with your stakeholders successfully takes time to build confidence, respect, and credibility with them.