You’re interested in Financial Services, but have no experience. How can you get your foot in the door? (2024)

Before you apply for any job, you need to have a clear idea of what you want to achieve and why you are interested in Financial Services. Do you want to work in banking, insurance, accounting, or investment? Do you have a specific role or function in mind, such as sales, analysis, or compliance? What skills and knowledge do you need to succeed in that area? Having a clear vision of your goals will help you narrow down your options and focus your efforts.

To get your foot in the door, you need to demonstrate that you understand the industry and its trends, challenges, and opportunities. You can do this by reading industry publications, blogs, podcasts, and newsletters, as well as following relevant influencers and organizations on social media. You can also attend webinars, events, and workshops to learn from experts and network with professionals. Researching the industry will help you stay updated, informed, and curious.

Even if you don't have any formal experience in Financial Services, you can still showcase your skills and abilities that are relevant and transferable to the sector. For example, you can highlight your communication, problem-solving, teamwork, and analytical skills, as well as your initiative, creativity, and adaptability. You can also learn new skills or improve your existing ones by taking online courses, certifications, or bootcamps that cover topics such as finance, accounting, economics, or data analysis.

A portfolio is a collection of work samples that demonstrate your skills and achievements in a tangible way. It can include projects, reports, case studies, presentations, or any other relevant work that you have done or contributed to. You can create a portfolio using online platforms, such as GitHub, Behance, or Medium, or using your own website or blog. A portfolio can help you showcase your potential and value to employers and recruiters.

Networking is one of the most effective ways to get your foot in the door in any industry, especially in Financial Services. You can network by reaching out to people you know who work in the sector, such as friends, family, alumni, or mentors, and asking for advice, referrals, or introductions. You can also network by joining online communities, groups, or forums that are related to your interests and goals. Networking can help you discover hidden opportunities, get insider tips, and build relationships. Applying is the final step to getting your foot in the door. You need to tailor your resume and cover letter to each job and highlight your skills, achievements, and motivation. You also need to prepare for interviews and assessments by researching the company, the role, and the industry. Applying can be a numbers game, so don't get discouraged by rejections and keep trying until you land your dream job.

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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