How to get into finance

To start a career in finance, consider your goals, develop relevant skills, gain experience, network, and consider certification. It’s also important to continue learning and staying up-to-date with industry developments.

Career paths in finance

There are many career paths in finance, including:

1. Investment banking
   Investment bankers help companies and governments raise capital by underwriting and selling securities. They also advise clients on mergers and acquisitions, restructuring, and other financial transactions.
2. Asset management
   Asset managers oversee investment portfolios for individuals, institutions, and corporations. They may manage mutual funds, hedge funds, and other investment vehicles.
3. Financial planning
   Financial planners help individuals and families make informed financial decisions by creating customized financial plans. They may offer advice on budgeting, saving, investing, and other financial topics.
4. Corporate finance
   Corporate finance professionals help companies manage their financial resources, including raising capital, managing risk, and making investment decisions.
5. Commercial banking
   Commercial bankers work with businesses and organizations to provide financial products and services, such as loans, credit lines, and cash management services.
6. Insurance
   Insurance professionals help individuals and businesses protect against financial losses by offering a variety of insurance products, such as life, health, and property insurance.
7. Real estate
   Real estate professionals help individuals and organizations buy, sell, and manage real estate properties. They may work as brokers, agents, or property managers.
8. Trading
   Traders buy and sell securities on behalf of financial firms or clients. They may work in investment banking, asset management, or other areas of finance.
9. Actuarial science
   Actuaries use math, statistics, and financial theory to analyze the financial consequences of risk. They may work in insurance, pension plans, and other areas of finance.

Skills required for a finance career

There are several skills that are important for success in a finance career, including:

1. Analytical skills
   Finance professionals need strong analytical skills to interpret financial data, identify trends, and make informed decisions.
2. Problem-solving skills
   Finance professionals often encounter complex problems that require creative solutions. Strong problem-solving skills are essential for finding the best solution.
3. Communication skills
   Finance professionals need to be able to clearly explain financial concepts and ideas to clients, colleagues, and stakeholders. Strong verbal and written communication skills are important.
4. Attention to detail
   Finance professionals need to be detail-oriented in order to accurately analyze financial data and identify potential risks and opportunities.
5. Time management skills
   Finance professionals often work under tight deadlines, so it’s important to be able to manage your time effectively.
6. Business acumen
   Understanding business principles and practices is essential for success in finance. This includes knowledge of finance, accounting, marketing, and operations.
7. Adaptability
   The finance industry is constantly evolving, so it’s important to be adaptable and open to learning new skills and technologies.
8. Ethical behavior
   Finance professionals are expected to adhere to high ethical standards and act with integrity in all business dealings.
   

Salary and career progression in finance

Salary and career progression in finance can vary based on factors such as the specific role, industry, location, and level of experience.

In general, finance professionals with advanced degrees and professional certifications tend to earn higher salaries. Experience is also an important factor, as finance professionals often receive salary increases and promotions as they gain expertise and take on additional responsibilities.

According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for personal financial advisors was $89,160 in May 2020. The median annual wage for financial analysts was $85,660, and the median annual wage for financial managers was $129,890.

However, salaries can vary widely depending on the specific role and industry. For example, investment bankers often earn higher salaries than other finance professionals, due to the demanding nature of the work and the long hours.

In terms of career progression, finance professionals typically start in entry-level positions and advance to more senior roles as they gain experience and take on additional responsibilities. In some cases, finance professionals may also have the opportunity to move into management roles or start their own businesses.

The future of finance:

The future of finance is likely to be influenced by a number of factors, including technological innovation, changing regulations, and shifts in the global economy. Here are a few trends that may shape the future of finance:

1. Increased use of technology: Technology is already transforming the finance industry, and this trend is likely to continue. For example, financial institutions are using artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning to automate tasks, analyze data, and make better decisions.
2. Greater focus on sustainability: There is growing interest in sustainable finance, which involves investing in projects and companies that have a positive impact on the environment and society. This trend is likely to continue as investors increasingly consider the long-term sustainability of their investments.
3. Changes in regulations: The finance industry is heavily regulated, and regulatory changes can have significant impacts on the industry. For example, increased regulation of the financial sector following the 2008 financial crisis has led to changes in the way financial institutions operate.
4. Shifts in the global economy: Changes in the global economy can also impact the finance industry. For example, shifts in exchange rates or changes in economic growth can affect financial markets and financial institutions.

Overall, the future of finance is likely to be shaped by a combination of these and other factors. It is important for finance professionals to stay up-to-date with developments in the field and adapt to changing conditions.