Getting a Finance Job in the USA with a bachelor’s degree can seem impossible. But doable with the right information and step. The emails of companies and industries are filled with resumes of students and professionals who are looking to work. And get the lifestyle that comes with working with these major agencies.
More so, finance industries can seem cyclical, due to the influence that the stock market has on them. When the market is booming, these companies are booming. Also, but when the opposite happens, so do the companies experiencing a downtrend.
That is not only the problem, even when there is an influx of jobs in the market. But not all jobs are also suitable for students or the so-called professionals. But following the steps that would be listed for you in this article, you would inevitably increase your chances of getting a job.
Without any further delay, let’s get to it:
- Steps to getting a Finance Job in the USA with a Bachelor’s Degree
- Key Takeaways
Steps to getting a Finance Job in USA with a Bachelor’s Degree
Below are some of the steps to follow to get a job in the financial sector using your Bachelor’s Degree.
1. Internships
An internship is a temporary job placement in a company for the benefit of gaining the required experience in a particular field or profession. We have paid internships and unpaid internships.
A paid internship is whereby a worker is paid a little stipend for his/her services by the company. While unpaid internships come with no stipend, he/she has to work for free for the duration of his internship program.
Internships can be ideal for college students, during their college year and even right after college. It helps to fill in the lack of full-time job experience and the tasks are quite easier compared to working full-time.
Many finance internships in the United States are paid, so that should make things quite easier for you in case you need finance. This is usually the best bet for a college graduate fresh out of the university.
This way, you can get the experience you need to land a more competitive finance job post. The goal here is to get as many internship positions to build your experience and not just one. Demonstrate your strong work ethic in the company you are doing your internship in.
Stick to one field and master that field by doing as many internships as you can in that field, so when the time is right you can then apply for a more advanced and competitive as well as rewarding position in the field.
2. Use Your Background
In most companies today, diversity is being incorporated into the sphere and space of these companies according to the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). This is a very good opportunity for applicants and students with a known background.
Companies do offer grants, scholarships, and jobs that are specific to a particular background, gender, or race. You can leverage these opportunities to get a job at the company in question.
Morgan Stanley’s Richard B. Fisher Scholarship program in the U.S. offers funds and internships to Black, Latino, Native American, and LGBT college juniors and sophomores.
There are also programs and jobs for people with disabilities and special needs. The point is, if you qualify for this diversity program, whether a scholarship, course, or job, don’t be shy to apply.
3. Target your field
Many companies most times give the impression that your major or field of study doesn’t matter, claiming they hire all types, but the smart thing to do is apply for jobs that are specific to what you studied and have experience in.
For someone that studied statistics or mathematics, you are best suited for finance jobs related to analysis or dealing with large numbers. For someone who has concepts learned in physics and pure mathematics, this could prepare you in understanding areas like currency swaps, trading, investments, and more.
But going after a job offer relating to biotech, and pharmaceuticals and you are majoring in communications and commerce, would not be a good fit for you. Or the best way to do this is if you are majoring in commerce and communication, try and minor in a field related to what you are trying to apply for.
4. Research
Another tip to prepare you for landing your own finance job is research. Always learn to research and read up on financial news and updates. Pick up subscriptions either physical or digital from agencies like the Wall Street Journal, or Financial Times.
Immerse yourself in financial literature and get used to talking like someone who is already in the field full-time. Know what all the financial terminology means, like BPS, MBS, Federal discount rate, and many more.
Read up on investment books, from the basic to the advanced level, tutorials, guides, and also financial websites should be bookmarked on your web browser.
Key Takeaways
- Internships offer experience and exposure
- It makes getting a full-time job easier
- You don’t need an MBA to work in finance
- If you don’t have a major in a finance-related field, minor in one or take a professional course in one.
- Always immerse yourself in financial news, magazines, websites, and journals
- Sitting for finance-related professional exams to boost your resume