Finance jobs are not restricted to finance graduates. It may be worthwhile to conduct a finance job search even if you do not posses a finance degree. A degree in any discipline sharpens an individual’s:
- Logical and analytical thinking
- Presentation and communication skills
Conducting Finance Job Search without Finance Degree
Graduates holding any degree can search for finance jobs in the banking and investment sectors. Although most people working in these sectors have finance-related qualifications, arts graduates have also become highly successful in finance careers. If you have a non-finance degree, all you need is the initial training to gain the skills and the knowledge to become proficient in your wok.
Some tips to help you gain employment in the finance field are:
- Think outside the box: Do not let your preconceived notions prevent you from applying for banking and investment jobs if you are keen on the sector, desire to learn new things and have a basic level of numerical skills. In fact, several companies target arts students to access a range of useful non-technical ‘soft skills,’ such as good communication, presentation and writing skills.
- Display your interest: Ensure that the covering letter on your resume demonstrates your interest in the field and shows that you have researched the role, company and industry properly. Through this letter, you can convince recruiters that you are apt for a career in the sector and that your skills are relevant for the role.
- Select a medium to let an employer know you: With most employers in the banking and investment sector offering experience in the form of internship, opt for the opportunity to gain all the knowledge on banking. During the internship period, you give your employer a chance to gauge your other qualities and skills, such as interpersonal skills, ability to learn and team work. You can also use this opportunity to explore the sector and decide whether the career is right for you.
- Do your homework before applying: Do not apply until you have completed your homework. You can prove your interest to the interviewer in the banking or investment sectors by using the financial vocabulary and showing enthusiasm in the covering letter and in the interview stage.