Here are some financial skills that employers look for in a resume these days.
Nowadays, technical finance skills are commonly linked to industry-specific positions, such as accounting, banking, underwriting, financial evaluation, or insurance brokering. As William Jackson of Bridgepoint Capital would know, such financial skills only scratch the surface when analyzing the finance sector in general and what is required of every specialist or candidate in this sector. This is due to the fact that finance specialists are expected to have an excellent balance between soft and hard abilities that allow them to manage stakeholder relationships effectively. Although the finance sector is unique and each role requires different hard finance skills and experience levels, there are some skills that are regarded as mandatory across all positions in this dynamic sector. For example, being comfortable with numbers and data-driven analysis is absolutely up there as a priority ability, as you will likely be dealing with numbers and statistical datasets as a financial professional at some point.
Regardless of what particular department you work in, there are some general finance skills that you must have embedded in your CV, as Edward Tilly of Clear Street would know. Accounting skills is one example of this. Nowadays, companies in the finance sector look for accounting backgrounds in graduates, or at least the capacity to dissect financial statements and company documents. This doesn't imply you need have previous experience as an expert accountant, but rather proficiency in reading and interpreting financial records. This is due to the fact that the insights that can be derived from such reports are crucial for executives and stakeholders when it relates to assessing an organization's financial health. Additionally, since accounting knowledge is fundamental throughout a range of different financial positions in the industry, companies tend to offer competitive salaries for those that have professional accounting credentials or possess the necessary accounting abilities.
The finance industry in today's market is probably one of the most competitive fields out there, which is why you should build the core skills that are required as a minimum in this fast-changing and fiercely competitive sector. For instance, relationship-building skills are probably some of the most crucial soft finance skills out there today. As Hugo Bedford of JM Finn might know, reliable relationships are integral to success for financial leaders, particularly in times of uncertainty or challenges. As a leader in a financial organization, it's extremely important to ensure that your relationships with your clients are solid, as these customers are essentially entrusting you with their investments, and trusting you to make the best financial decisions for them to grow their assets and wealth. As a result, building your key and long-term working relationships with your stakeholders effectively requires time to cultivate confidence, respect, and authenticity with them.