By Liam Jones 
A career in finance can be exciting, rewarding, and full of opportunities. Whether you want to manage money, help people invest, or work behind the scenes in big companies, finance has a wide range of roles to explore. The best part? You don’t need to be a math genius or a Wall Street expert to get started. With some planning and curiosity, you can find your way into this fast-paced industry.
Finance is all about understanding how money moves—from personal savings to big business budgets. The field is constantly evolving, especially with the rise of technology and global markets. If you’re wondering how to break into finance, you’re not alone. Let’s walk through some practical steps to help you get started.
Understand What Finance Is All About
Before diving in, it’s a good idea to understand what a career in finance really looks like. It’s not just about numbers or spreadsheets—though those are part of it. Finance covers everything from banking, investing, budgeting, and financial planning to risk management and corporate strategy.
Different jobs in finance require different skills. Some are more client-facing, like financial advisors or investment bankers, while others are more analytical, like accountants or financial analysts. Figuring out which side of finance interests you can help guide your path and keep you motivated.
Explore Different Career Paths
There are many directions you can take in the finance world. If you like working with people and giving advice, you might enjoy being a personal financial advisor. If you’re interested in markets and trading, investment banking or asset management could be your thing.
Other common roles include accountants, loan officers, actuaries, and analysts. New areas like fintech (financial technology) are also opening up exciting options in startups and tech companies. Researching different career paths will give you a better sense of what fits your personality and goals.
Get the Right Education
You don’t always need a finance degree to work in finance, but having a solid educational background helps a lot. A bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, economics, or business is a great starting point. Some roles may require more specific training, like certifications or advanced degrees.
If you’re switching careers or studying something else, you can still get into finance by taking online courses or earning credentials like the CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst) or CPA (Certified Public Accountant). These show employers you’re serious and committed to the field.
Build Up Your Skills
Beyond education, certain skills can really set you apart in finance. Analytical thinking, attention to detail, and strong communication are all essential. Knowing how to use tools like Excel and financial software is also a huge plus.
Soft skills matter just as much. Being able to explain complex ideas in simple terms, solve problems creatively, and work well in teams can help you thrive in almost any financial role. Practice these skills in school, internships, or even side projects to build your confidence.
Look for Internships or Entry-Level Roles
One of the best ways to get your foot in the door is through internships or entry-level jobs. These positions give you real-world experience, help you build a network, and can lead to full-time offers. Even if it’s not your dream job right away, it’s a valuable step forward.
Try applying for internships at banks, accounting firms, investment companies, or even within the finance departments of regular businesses. Keep an open mind—you might discover a niche you hadn’t considered before that suits you perfectly.
Start Networking Early
In finance, who you know can sometimes be just as important as what you know. Building relationships with people in the industry can help you find opportunities, learn about different career paths, and get insider advice.
You can start networking by joining finance-related clubs, attending career fairs, connecting with professionals on LinkedIn, or even asking professors for recommendations. Don’t be afraid to reach out and ask someone for a quick chat or coffee to learn more about what they do.
Stay Updated with Industry Trends
Finance is constantly changing, especially with the rise of new technologies, regulations, and market shifts. Staying informed will not only help you sound knowledgeable during interviews but will also show your passion for the field.
Read finance news, follow market trends, and explore topics like cryptocurrency, sustainability investing, and global economics. Websites like Investopedia, Bloomberg, and CNBC are great places to start. Podcasts and YouTube channels can also offer digestible insights in a casual format.
Consider Certifications and Specializations
Once you’ve gotten a taste of the field, you might consider going deeper by earning certifications. Programs like the CFA, CPA, or CFP (Certified Financial Planner) are respected across the industry and can help you stand out when applying for competitive jobs.
These certifications usually require passing exams and gaining a few years of experience, but they’re worth it if you’re serious about a long-term finance career. Some roles, like financial advisors or investment analysts, often prefer or even require these credentials.
Be Patient and Keep Growing
Like any career, success in finance doesn’t happen overnight. It might take a few years to land your ideal role or move up the ladder, but every step counts. Use each opportunity to learn, grow, and build your professional reputation.
Stay curious, take initiative, and don’t be discouraged by setbacks. Finance is a field with plenty of room to grow, whether you’re aiming to become a manager, a specialist, or even start your own financial business one day. Keep pushing forward—you’ve got this!