How to land a job in finance

People seeking jobs in finance understand just how challenging it can be to secure a position in this competitive and lucrative field. Breaking into a finance career often requires meeting a range of qualifications, both formal and informal, that set candidates apart. Whether you’re a recent college graduate or an experienced professional considering a transition, there are key steps you must follow even before you begin sending in applications.

When launching a career in finance or aiming to secure your dream job, it’s important to be proactive in your approach. Earning credentials like the SIE (Securities Industry Essentials) can be a valuable first step to demonstrate your commitment and knowledge. If you’re ready to start your journey toward a top finance firm or independent consulting, this comprehensive guide will help you navigate and thrive in the industry. Read on for expert advice tailored to both newcomers and seasoned professionals looking to advance their finance careers.

Finance jobs for recent college graduates

“I want to get a job in finance, but I don’t know where to start.”

This is a common sentiment among new college graduates seeking to enter the financial sector. If you’re considering a role in the finance industry, especially in areas like wealth management or insurance sales, it may feel overwhelming at first. However, the industry is increasingly open to candidates from diverse backgrounds, including those without a finance major. Despite this greater inclusivity, launching your finance career still starts with a competitive application that stands out among the thousands received for open positions.

One of the most effective ways to differentiate yourself is by passing the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) Securities Industry Essentials (SIE) exam. Achieving a FINRA SIE license before applying to entry-level finance roles demonstrates your proficiency with the fundamental concepts of the finance industry. Employers recognize that candidates who have earned their SIE and can successfully pass FINRA licensing exams bring immediate value to their organizations.

The SIE is the essential first step toward getting a job and obtaining additional FINRA securities licenses. Whether your target role is financial advisor, private wealth associate, or trading representative, passing the SIE exam is usually a prerequisite, and it cements your foundational knowledge for a successful finance career. Credentials like the Series 7, which authorize holders to sell a number of financial products, require candidates to have passed the SIE to sit for licensing exams. The SIE covers basic financial products like stocks and bonds, critical market dynamics, options, and securities regulations, which are the core elements every finance professional must understand.

Experience the challenge of the exam for yourself: take a FINRA SIE practice exam to see where you stand.

To help you identify which careers require or prefer the SIE, here’s a list of typical finance positions where passing the SIE exam gives you an edge:

• Financial advisor
• Private wealth associate
• Client relationship associate
• Research associate
• Trading representative
• Financial services consultant
• Equity research associate
• Social media compliance analyst
• Relationship banker
• Investment banking analyst

Keep in mind that while some of these roles may not list the SIE as an official prerequisite, possessing your SIE license or completion certificate shows drive and dedication: traits highly valued in finance recruiting. Employers appreciate candidates who hold a FINRA SIE license because:

• It saves valuable time and reduces upfront training costs. The SIE exam typically requires 2 to 4 weeks of focused study during onboarding; if you hold your SIE in advance, you empower employers to get you started immediately, rather than waiting on your certification process.
• It indicates you can complete further FINRA licensing exams required for advanced roles. Each year, hundreds of new hires in the financial industry are let go due to their inability to pass FINRA exams. Demonstrating your ability to pass the SIE exam before applying increases employer confidence that you’ll handle subsequent licensing requirements needed for your future in finance.

How to Get a Job in Finance as a Second Career

Going into finance from a different career can be quite a big leap. The finance industry has its own language and hierarchy, and experience may not transfer 1:1 from your old industry and role. This change can often come with a lot of challenges, but it also comes with more opportunities for growth and improvements in compensation.

If you’re considering making the career switch, here are some tips to keep in mind before taking the plunge:

• Make sure it’s the right fit for you. Taking on a finance job when you come from a different background means assessing whether or not you are equipped with the skills needed for the new role. Furthermore, finance jobs require a certain level of competency when it comes to finance concepts and aspects, such as economics and accounting.
• Brush up on your software knowledge. Finance jobs require not only strong interpersonal and problem-solving skills but also technical know-how. You must be well-versed in tools like Excel, PowerPoint, and other software used for creating spreadsheets and financial statements/reports.
• Assess your current skills. Pivoting to a finance role means learning new things and adapting your current abilities; there may be skills you’ve acquired from previous jobs that may be useful in your career shift (if you have sales or customer service experience, be sure to highlight that). Self-studying or enrolling in online/in-person courses could help you improve your existing skills and gear them towards finance.
• Broaden your network. If you’re new to the finance industry, one of the most surefire ways to learn more about it is to connect with financial experts, thought leaders, and individuals in the field. This will help you gain insight into both the fundamentals and complexities of the finance industry and can even help you land a job.

Keep in mind that switching to a finance career won’t confine you to corporate finance or financial services: you may also apply for jobs in venture capital, private wealth management, investment management, and more. Those jobs are just more competitive and selective.

How to get a job in finance in the U.S. as a foreign national

Many firms outsource or hire professionals from outside the U.S. to expand their talent pool and promote cost-efficiency, opening opportunities for financial professionals overseas. While these opportunities are promising, there are a number of requirements for foreign nationals to submit, qualifications to meet, and processes to undergo.

Who is authorized to work in the U.S.?

There are several categories of overseas workers who can seek employment in the U.S.. You may be a permanent immigrant worker, a temporary or non-immigrant worker, or a student/exchange worker.

Whichever category you fall under, you would first and foremost need to obtain a visa from the U.S Embassy or Consulate in your country. The type of visa you will be granted will depend on your work setup: it could be a temporary work visa, a seasonal work visa, or an exchange worker visa. Be sure to apply for a visa in advance, as the entire process will take some time.

Further in the process, you would also have to secure a work permit, or more officially known as an Employment Authorization Document (EAD), along with an accomplished I-9 Form as proof that you are eligible to work in the U.S.

How can I find a finance job in the U.S.?

In pursuing finance jobs in the U.S., you generally have two primary options: first, securing a finance job with an employer willing to sponsor your relocation and employment; or second, entering the country and searching for finance jobs on-site with employers who can support the entire hiring process. When considering financial employment opportunities abroad, some of the most promising areas for finance jobs include private equity, hedge funds, and investment banking, which consistently offer strong prospects for qualified professionals.

What are the things to consider before moving?

If you are granted a work permit and are looking to move to the U.S. to find a job in finance, assess the following factors first:

• Language and Culture. Whether you are seeking short-term or long-term employment, you will likely need to show conversational and professional proficiency in English. Communication skills are vital in any finance role, and it will be more difficult for you to adjust if you do not understand and are not understood by clients and co-workers. Moreover, you have to learn about the culture: this is something that you would need to research and be mindful of at each company. It pays to understand that not everyone works the same way, so you’d have to be able to adapt to their ideals and ways of day-to-day living.
• Compensation. Before moving permanently, be sure that what you earn will be able to catch up with the cost of living in the area or areas you will be assigned to. The same goes for both cash and non-cash benefits you will be receiving, or if your employer will be providing you with assistance on housing and health insurance.

How to get a job in finance with no experience

What if you’re a college graduate with a degree unrelated to finance? Does this mean your chances of starting a finance career are out of reach?

Absolutely not, you can still break into the finance industry, even if you lack a finance degree or direct work experience. Getting a job in finance with no experience is more achievable today than ever before. While backgrounds in sales, customer support, or retail can be advantageous, opportunities are increasingly open to candidates from diverse fields.

Here are some effective strategies on how to get a job in finance without prior experience:

• Craft an effective resume. A standout resume is essential when pursuing finance jobs with no experience. Highlight your transferable skills, such as customer service, business management, or analytical abilities, that are valuable in financial roles. Emphasize attention to detail and proofread your resume thoroughly; accuracy is highly valued in the finance sector, and errors can quickly disqualify your application. Tailor your resume to showcase skills relevant to the finance industry.
• Conduct thorough industry research. Before applying, immerse yourself in the world of finance. Stay informed about financial markets, stock market news, and the latest trends impacting the industry. Research each financial institution or company you’re targeting to demonstrate your industry knowledge during interviews. Being well-versed in current events and financial products will help you confidently discuss topics that matter to hiring managers.
• Build and leverage your network. Networking is a key factor in getting a job in finance, especially for newcomers. Attend industry events, seek introductions through your existing contacts, or reach out directly to professionals in the field. Consistent networking opens doors, provides valuable insights, and helps you make connections that can lead to job opportunities. Staying updated on finance trends will also enable you to engage in meaningful conversations with industry insiders.
• Pursue internships in financial institutions. Gaining hands-on experience through internships is one of the best ways to enter the finance industry without prior work history. Internships offer practical exposure to finance roles and help you build relevant skills while expanding your professional network. These experiences can count as valuable work history on your resume. Remember, internships are competitive: apply early and use your research and networking skills to stand out.
• Define your career objectives. Be specific about what you want to achieve and your career goals, whether it’s advancing to a leadership role within five years or exploring different areas within finance. Well-defined objectives help recruiters understand your ambitions and assess if they align with the company’s direction.
• Pass your FINRA SIE exam. Earning your FINRA Securities Industry Essentials (SIE) exam credential is an excellent way to demonstrate foundational knowledge of financial products, regulations, and industry operations. Passing this entry-level exam shows employers you are serious about a career in finance and have taken steps toward obtaining a FINRA securities license.

By following these steps, you’ll greatly improve your chances of landing a finance job, even without prior experience or a related degree.

Key Takeaways

Getting a finance job requires not only hard work and determination, but also careful due diligence throughout your job search. Whether you’re preparing for your FINRA securities license exams, researching international finance jobs, or seeking internships to gain industry exposure, every step you take builds your qualifications. Even if you’re exploring how to get a job in finance with no experience, strategic actions like passing the SIE, connecting with professionals, and applying to entry-level finance jobs can open doors. With these insights in mind, you can confidently move forward and achieve a stable and rewarding career in finance, no matter your starting point.