Select the Field
But before these entry level jobs in the world of finance are even in anybody's radar, certain steps must first be done. Keep in mind that finance-related careers and jobs are highly competitive especially in the recessionary economy. It is then essential to choose the field of specialization from the get-go so that everything else falls in line from the education to the work experience.
Your first step is to choose the field of specialization. In the finance world, being a jack of all trades is not as desirable as being a master of one especially when it comes to the many aspects of money management. The key in becoming successful in finance jobs is to balance being master of a particular specialization on one hand and being a jack of all trades by understanding how each aspect of finance is related in the general scheme of things on the other hand.
For example, you can be an accountant with a general understanding of the various aspects of accounting but your desired field of specialization is management information systems. Your education, training and desired work experience will be geared toward the achievement of such a career path.
Other possible finance careers include actuaries, bank officers, finance managers, auditors, securities brokers, financial analysts, business journalists and teachers. Indeed, you may have to possess other personal attributes other than an affinity for numbers depending on the entry level finance jobs you are gunning for.
Secure the Education and Training
After determining the field of specialization, your next step is to secure the necessary education and training to become one of its apprentices and then masters, so to speak. It must be emphasized that in the field of finance, a bachelor's degree is a must for finance jobs that pay well and set the professional on the path of a successful career in finance.
The bachelor's degrees possible for such a career include accounting, economics, business administration, banking and other finance-related courses. We suggest asking your high school guidance counselor for advice on the best degree that will set you on the right path toward becoming a successful accountant, auditor, broker, manager or whatever it is that you want to be in the pantheon of finance careers.
You may also be required to secure licenses and certifications from private professional organizations and/or government agencies even before entry level finance jobs are within your reach. For example, accountants must have a CPA license before being hired as entry level auditors in finance firms.
Seek the Work Experience
Lest you think that being hired for an entry level position is the be-all and end-all of your success in the field of finance, think again. With finance positions being highly competitive, it is important to acquire more skills, hone more talents and just generally be more experienced with each job.
For example, if you wish to become a finance manager in a large banking chain, you must start with an entry level job, say, as a bank teller. You will then move up the corporate ladder, whether it is within the same company or within the industry, which can be achieved by undergoing more training, experience and exposure toward becoming the finance manager of your dreams.
Shape the Personality
But even when you have the education, training and experience, you are well advised to shape the personality essential for success in finance careers. You must have a strong aptitude for quantitative and qualitative analysis, a strong set of communication skills, and an equally strong mind able to surmount the pressures that finance careers exert on individuals. Creativity in solving the complex problems that come with managing money is also essential for success.
If you are on the lookout for entry level finance jobs, log on to AccountingCrossing.com today and find thousands of listings. You can even take advantage of their free trial during which time numerous possible finance jobs will be offered for your selection.
