Because finance is a highly competitive profession, student’s résumés are piled high on the desks of employers. In the world of finance, if the stock market is growing, the jobs are booming. Nevertheless, finding a job is a difficult task for most non-experienced individuals. An applicant with a finance major can usually work in a corporation or financial institution. Before you apply for a job, ask the professor who taught your favorite class about the closest related job to the subject, and the top companies that hire in the field.
The next step is to sign up for an internship or for a volunteering position. Because the majority of candidates who apply for entry-level professions don’t know have sufficient knowledge, companies offer training and orientation programs. An internship does not require much usually, also it can fill in for your lack of full-time experience. Furthermore, an internship is not as difficult to get as real job, especially if it is not paid. Most employers will ask you to do some simple tasks and grunt work, like making copies. The greatest advantage is that you get familiarized with the working environment.
Because of the numerous applicants with high GPAs and degrees from good schools, finding a job can be a challenging task. A great way to difference yourself from the majority is to take the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) Level 1 exam that has a good reputation in the world of finance. The first exam can be taken in the final year of the bachelor’s program. Nevertheless, applicants will need four years of work experience to get the designation. Professionals appreciate an applicant with a finance major and a CFA certification, because they realize the dedication required by the program.
Another important aspect is networking. Students must take advantage of the career center services and attend on-campus company information sessions. Some finance departments arrange internships or consulting deals and establish relationships with companies. Work hard at any internship because references can be decisive for future jobs. Impressing your boss can even get you a full-time job with that company and open many doors. Interacting with experienced professionals in the field can pave the road for future job opportunities.
In order to put a finance major to good use, you must be informed at all time about the events happening in your field. Reading the financial news must become part of your daily routine. If you are still a student, find out if you can get discounted subscriptions for publication such as the Financial Times, The Economist and The Wall Street Journal. This lecture will familiarize you with the industry’s jargon and solidify the knowledge you already have. Furthermore, discussing with professionals and employers will feel more natural.
