A recent study by industry giants KPMG has revealed the financial services sector in the UK is going through an identity crisis.
Almost two thirds of outsiders expressed reluctance to consider joining because they think it’s too boring.
Recruiters, too, are finding it difficult to land fresh talent, despite attractive salaries and above-average job satisfaction for those already in the business.
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So, if you’ve been thinking about applying for a financial services role from s1jobs but didn’t think it was sexy enough, have you thought how you could use your own charisma to shake up the sector and give it an image makeover?
First of all, you’ll need to network. This is crucial because competition within the industry for the best jobs is high.
Establishing connections and maintaining profitable relationships can help you keep abreast of the latest trends and improve reputations at both a company and an individual level.
It can also open up wider career development opportunities and is particularly beneficial to those looking to work in investment banking.
Of course, there’s no point in networking if you can’t show off your super-strength personality. Bringing plenty of character to the table is a must. Ambitious, dynamic, charismatic individuals progress more quickly up the ranks. Think the Wolf of Wall Street but without any of the shady shenanigans.
Financial services jobs that require bags of personality include investment banking, stock trading and corporate finance.
Once you’ve a foot in the door you should look to put your name on it too.
This takes tenacity. Working in finance usually means high stakes and fierce competition. That’s why the most successful players are determined and resilient.
While some shy away from high-stakes roles, others thrive – showing a willingness to succeed and being prepared to last the whole haul is particularly important for those seeking entry-level or graduate positions.
This means talking the talk. The ability to communicate ideas, theories and data analysis is just as important as having top numeracy skills. Not everyone who works in financial services will be a numbers whizz like yourself, so the ability to relay information in a clear, transparent and jargon-free way is essential.
This is key for those who work in customer-based roles in the sector, such as accountants, insurance agents, and commercial bankers.
Finally, if you really want to make it to the top – and stay there – get working on your leadership qualities. High stakes can mean high stress and that calls for dynamic managers who can deliver but know when to delegate.
Wherever you are on the career ladder, the ability to navigate unforeseen problems and lead the way is a must.
If you’ve all these skills and more, you’re perfect for adding a bit of ooh la la to the business – so head to s1jobs for the hottest numbers in Financial Services/Investment.