Financial Services Careers - Industry Overview
Are you drawn to numbers? Do you enjoy considering and taking risks? If so, a career in financial services might be a perfect fit!
Did you know that financial services jobs are available in diverse corporations and government agencies as well as in banks and other financial institutions? These types of positions provide opportunities to apply your skills with numbers in strategic financial planning, quantitative analysis, investment management and sales. Each of the various positions requires different skills and provides different rewards.
Some of the job skills needed for a career in financial services include:
- Mathematical skills
- Analytical skills
- Computer skills
- Communication skills, such as writing and listening
- Leadership skills
- Problem-solving and decision-making skills
- Integrity
- Ability to work well with others, especially as a member of a team
- Organizational skills
So, if you've always dreamed of trading stocks on Wall Street, consider becoming an analyst in investment management sales. Or, perhaps a career in banking or corporate finance is more your style.
Did you know that the banking profession is one that encourages both personal and professional development and that many banks offer their own training programs to help employees grow? Banking associations also sponsor finance courses and training programs, some of which are held in conjunction with local universities.
All corporations depend on accountants, auditors, and tax professionals to facilitate the flow of money, monitor the bottom line and protect the organization's assets and integrity. There are plenty of opportunities in non-financial services companies.
It's important to remember that financial services is a large and diverse industry. With so many choices to explore, it will help if you determine what aspects of the industry are a match for your skills and interests.