How Can I Get A Job In Finance?

You and I might be in the same boat. I have my college degree in a liberal arts/humanities area and several master’s hours in humanities, but not in finance. With my current situation (student loans) I can’t afford to go back to being a FT bookkeeper making $9/hour just for the experience.
So, I’m taking online courses in accounting and preparing to undertake my MBA, which will take about 3 years. Check out geteducated.com. Hopefully with dedication & commitment, I’ll finish my MBA for less than $15,000. And I think my current employer will help cover some of the cost.
I guess in the meantime, contact some companies during their busy season (end of quarter is good) and volunteer to do some accounting data entry, even a few hours a week. Also, I’d keep a log of whatever informal study you do (books you read, hours spent studying, personal contacts made, etcetera.) Eventually, you will probably need some formal education in accounting/finance. I also know of people who sign on with financial advisery companies like Edward Jones, etcetera. It’s commission work, and not for me, but if you have the right sales personality, can open doors for you.
Also, there’s an organization/certificate process called CMA–certified management accountant. Look for CMA and IMA (Institute of Management Accountants) online. 5 years ago, you didn’t have to be an accounting major to go through their testing process, but you did need a college degree. Other types of memberships (like student) were available, and depending on where you live they might have an active chapter with monthly meetings, which would be great for networking.
Finally, wherever you’re working now, let others know you’d like to volunteer for projects involving budget analysis, financial modeling, etc. Tell them you’d be happy to help do the grunt work–that you value the exposure and experience.

1 comment to How Can I Get A Job In Finance?

  • I don’t know how much college education you have right now, but a good way to start would be to look at a career in banking. If you don’t have a lot of education, how about checking into a job as a teller. Most banks have jobs available. Athough they don’t pay very well, it would be a way to get your foot in the door and then you can bid on an internal job that is more closely related to a finance position after the waiting period.

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