As a college student or recent grad, you’ve already decided that the finance industry is the right move for you. Maybe you like money, whether you’re making your own or helping others manage theirs. Maybe you’re interested in sales, analysis, numbers, forecasts or working as a member of a team. Whatever your motivations, you’ve decided that your future lies somewhere in the realm of accounting or financial service provision, and you’re ready to take the next steps. As you move forward, you’ll need to stay on track by keeping a few considerations in mind.
The world of “finance” is not clearly defined, and not all careers that fall under this umbrella are the same, or even remotely similar. So before you do anything else, you’ll need to choose a direction that fits your personality and your vision for the future. Personal wealth management or financial advisory services may be right for you if you enjoy sales and customer interactions. Analysis and financial planning may be a smart choice if you have an analytical mind and you love data and records management. Accounting, tax preparation, and other forms of money management can be secure and stable professions if you’re looking for long-term employment prospects.
Once you’ve set your sights and established your goals, you’ll need to conduct some research and map out a plan. What kind of degrees and training will you need to climb the ladder in your chosen direction? Will you need to enter a graduate program and earn a master’s degree or an MBA to find your footing in the job marketplace? Or will a bachelor’s degree and a few years of work experience be enough to launch your career? Will you need an internship before you seek full-time employment? Will you need certification or a license?
Once you have the tools you need (all necessary certifications, degrees, experience, and training), you’ll be making your case to potential employers. And in order to do this successfully, you’ll need a job search strategy and a strong personal brand. Putting together a resume and an application package may not require the same time investment as earning a graduate degree, but these final steps are no small task. Get the help you need by turning to a trusted career management team. The experts at Cordia can help you launch your financial career in the right direction.