Different entry-level finance skills for graduates

Different entry-level finance skills for graduates

Blog Article

If you are interested in getting into the finance sector, this article 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 know, such financial skills only scratch the surface when analyzing the finance sector as a whole and what is required of every specialist or candidate in this sector. This is due to the fact that 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 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 sector. For example, being comfortable with numbers and data-driven analysis is absolutely up there as a priority ability, as you will likely be dealing with numbers and statistical datasets as a financial professional at some point.


Regardless of what particular field you operate in, there are a few 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 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 analyzing financial records. This is because the conclusions that can be derived from such documents are crucial for executives and stakeholders when it comes to evaluating a company financial health. Moreover, since accounting knowledge is fundamental across a range of diverse financial roles in the industry, companies tend 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 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 critical to success for financial 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 solid, as these customers are essentially entrusting 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 interactions with your stakeholders successfully takes time to build trust, respect, and credibility with them.