Different entry-level finance skills for grads

Different entry-level finance skills for grads

Blog Article

Here are some financial skills that companies look for in a resume these days.


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 examining the financial industry as a whole and what is expected of every professional or applicant in this sector. This is because financial professionals are expected to have an excellent balance between soft and hard abilities that enable them to manage stakeholder relationships successfully. Although the finance industry is unique and each position requires varying hard finance skills and experience levels, there are some abilities that are considered 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 skill, as you will likely be working with numbers and statistical datasets as a finance specialist one way or another.


No matter what specific field 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, companies in the finance sector look for accounting backgrounds in graduates, or at least the capacity to dissect financial statements and company reports. This does not mean you must have previous experience as a professional accountant, but rather proficiency in reading and interpreting financial records. This is because the conclusions that can be derived from such documents are essential 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 positions in the industry, companies tend to offer competitive compensation for those that have professional accounting credentials or possess the necessary accounting abilities.


The financial industry in today's world is probably one of the most competitive fields out there, which is why you must build the essential skills that are required as a minimum in this dynamic 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 integral to success for financial leaders, especially in times of uncertainty or challenges. As a leader in a financial organization, it's extremely important to ensure that your relationships with your clients are strong, as these customers are essentially entrusting you with their money, and counting on you to make the best economic choices for them to maximize their capital and resources. Consequently, building your strategic and long-term working interactions with your stakeholders successfully requires time to build trust, respect, and authenticity with them.