Different entry-level finance skills for graduates

Different entry-level finance skills for graduates

Blog Article

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


Today, 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 in general and what is expected of every professional or applicant in this industry. This is because 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 position requires varying hard finance skills and experience levels, there are some abilities 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 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 department you work in, there are some general finance skills that you must have embedded in your CV, as Edward Tilly of Clear Street would know. Accounting skills is one example of this. Nowadays, companies in the finance sector 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 crucial for executives and stakeholders when it comes to assessing an organization's financial health. Moreover, since accounting knowledge is fundamental throughout a range of different financial positions in the industry, companies often to offer competitive salaries for those that have certified accounting qualifications or demonstrate 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 core skills that are expected as a minimum in this fast-changing and highly competitive field. For example, relationship-building abilities 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 solid, as these customers are essentially entrusting you with their money, and trusting you to make the best economic decisions for them to maximize their assets and resources. As a result, managing your key and long-term professional relationships with your stakeholders effectively takes time to build confidence, respect, and credibility with them.