Last updated on May 23, 2024

Here's how you can stand out as an entry-level candidate in Financial Services.

Entering the financial services industry at an entry-level position can be both exciting and challenging. With numerous candidates vying for similar roles, standing out from the crowd is essential. It's not just about having a strong academic background or an impressive resume; it's about showcasing your unique skills and attributes in a way that resonates with potential employers. Whether you're aiming for a position in investment banking, financial planning, or another sector within financial services, understanding what firms are looking for and how to present yourself can make all the difference in launching your career.

1 Cultivate Expertise

In the financial services sector, a deep understanding of economic principles, market trends, and financial products is invaluable. To distinguish yourself, pursue relevant certifications such as the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) or Certified Financial Planner (CFP) designations. These certifications demonstrate a commitment to the field and provide a solid foundation of knowledge. Additionally, staying informed about current events and their impact on financial markets will enable you to engage in meaningful discussions with professionals and show that you're proactive about your education.

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James Enriquez MST, EA, CFP

I help business owners pursue financial independence by providing comprehensive financial planning.
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In addition to these designations, experience can help cultivate expertise. Consider pro bono financial planning or providing free tax prep through the IRSâ€™s VITA program. Researching information for content creation is also a fun way to learn and cultivate experience as an entry level advisor.

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2 Network Effectively

Networking is a powerful tool in the financial services industry. Start by connecting with alumni from your university who are working in the sector and attend industry events to meet professionals. When networking, focus on building genuine relationships rather than simply seeking job opportunities. Listen actively, ask insightful questions, and follow up with new contacts to show your interest and initiative. Effective networking can lead to mentorship opportunities, internships, and even job offers.

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3 Polish Your Resume

Your resume is often your first impression on potential employers, so it must highlight your strengths and relevant experiences. Tailor your resume for each application to align with the job description, emphasizing any internships, projects, or coursework related to financial services. Use clear, concise language and quantify achievements when possible to demonstrate your impact. For example, state how much you increased efficiency or the size of the budget you managed.

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4 Develop Soft Skills

Technical knowledge is crucial, but soft skills like communication, teamwork, and problem-solving are equally important in financial services. Showcase examples of these skills through your past experiences, such as leading a team project or resolving a conflict. During interviews, articulate how these soft skills have contributed to your successes and how they will be beneficial in a financial services context.

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James Enriquez MST, EA, CFP

I help business owners pursue financial independence by providing comprehensive financial planning.
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Theodore Roosevelt once famously said, â€œPeople donâ€™t care how much you know until they know how much you care.â€ This is where soft skills come in. They help you demonstrate how much you care. Technical knowledge is important, but soft skills are important, too. You can be the best financial advisor in the world with the most technical knowledge, but itâ€™s meaningless if you cannot get someone to meet with you and implement your recommendations.

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5 Embrace Technology

Financial services are increasingly driven by technology. Familiarize yourself with financial software and tools commonly used in the industry, such as Microsoft Excel for financial modeling or Bloomberg Terminal for market data. Understanding fintech innovations and being able to discuss their implications for the industry can also set you apart as a candidate who is forward-thinking and adaptable to change.

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James Enriquez MST, EA, CFP

I help business owners pursue financial independence by providing comprehensive financial planning.
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The output is only as good as the input. In other words, itâ€™s helpful to know and understand the data you are putting into the software and how it impacts the final report. Thereâ€™s nothing like being asked a question about the report produced and not knowing the assumptions the software used to assemble the output. On the flip side, financial planning is still part art, and there are just some financial planning topics that cannot be solved with technology.

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6 Show Initiative

Finally, demonstrating initiative is key to standing out. This could mean starting an investment club at your university , writing a blog about financial markets, or volunteering to manage funds for a non-profit organization. Such activities show employers that you're passionate about finance and willing to go beyond academic requirements to engage with the field. This proactive approach can make a strong impression and differentiate you from other candidates.

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7 Hereâ€™s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that donâ€™t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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Directory

Here's how you can stand out as an entry-level candidate in Financial Services.

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1 Cultivate Expertise

2 Network Effectively

3 Polish Your Resume

4 Develop Soft Skills

5 Embrace Technology

6 Show Initiative

7 Hereâ€™s what else to consider

Financial Services

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