Careers

Choosing a Financial Career

Here's the A to Z of choosing a financial career, starting a financial career and advancing in that financial career. We also cover contingency planning for the possibility of layoffs. And, of course, we also give you the scoop on pay.

Financial Career Education, Training & Experience
Financial Career Choice
Choosing a Career in Support and Financial Management Functions
Financial Career Development
Financial Career Pay Plans

Financial Career Education, Training & Experience

In choosing a financial career you must be aware of the required education, training, prior experience and certifications. Likewise, we also cover what financial career paths are the best fits for someone with your background.

Financial Career Choice

Task one in choosing a financial career is deciding which specialty is most suitable for you. Here we present some of the most common financial career paths, with particular focus on those that are unique to the financial services industry. Note that there are extensive variations in precise job descriptions and duties from firm to firm. Remember that this is only a selection of the financial career profiles that we have developed for this guidesite.

Choosing a Career in Support and Financial Management Functions

A financial career in a non-producer, or support, function can be as interesting and rewarding as one in a more visible producer function. Morevover, a financial career in a support area often has the added benefit of involving skills that are readily transferable skills to (or from) other industries, especially in financial management positions. Additionally, while those looking for a highly compensated financial career often look to a producer track, a financial career in a support function also can be very well-paid and highly respected.

Financial Career Development

Financial career development may involve changing direction and expanding your base of expertise. Along the way, you have to become skilled in cultivating and working contacts, and learn the importance of building up your own financial reserves. Lastly, the mercurial nature of the financial services industry means that layoffs are always a possibility. Setting a personal plan for dealing with this eventuality is yet another critical objective for you.

Financial Career Pay Plans

One compelling reason for pursuing a financial career is that the financial services industry is noted for generous compensation plans, including large payouts of profits in the form of bonuses. No surprise that this is a huge reason why a financial career holds such allure for many talented and energetic people. Here's a rundown of the key elements of pay plans, as well as a look into the future, in light of the 2007-08 industry crisis.

Financial Careers