How to get a job in finance with no experience

Here's how to get a job in finance with no experience:

Obtain a finance-related degree

Most financial companies require at least an undergraduate degree. However, there are some roles in finance that may not require one at all. Even still, most candidates will still need excellent academic records to get a job in finance.

Jobs in finance require you to be good with numbers and a good communicator because many financial positions require you to explain complex financial issues.

Your best bet in getting a job in finance with no experience is to earn a bachelor's degree that will give you the knowledge and skills to land a financial position. Getting a financial degree also provides invaluable networking opportunities with your peers and professors, and access to internships.

Get an internship

Internships represent great opportunities for you to gain experience in the financial industry. They can be quite competitive, so be sure to bring your A-game when applying.

Financial internships can also sometimes lead to permanent positions at a company after you are done with school. This is perhaps the easiest route to landing your first job in finance.

If you are fortunate enough to get an internship, treat it as if it is your first real job in finance.

Create a stellar resume

A well-crafted resume can help you secure a job in finance. You should primarily focus on work experience that lends itself to the financial realm. Before applying to a financial position, research the required skills for the position. Next, try to align any of your previous work experiences with these required skills.

Write an impressive opening statement in your cover letter. If you can grab your potential employer's attention right from the start they might look past the fact that you don't have any experience in finance. The persuasive power of words can do some amazing things, so don't just create a standard opening statement.

Be sure to include any academic achievements, awards, clubs you were involved with, your GPA (if it is high), and any volunteer work you may have done.

Network

Networking is crucial to landing a job in finance, especially if you don't have experience. Start to build your financial network in college if you can, but always seek to expand it.

These connections can also prove valuable if you can get some of them to recommend you. Companies may disregard your lack of experience if a financial professional has referred you.

In the most ideal situation, you may gain a financial mentor through networking. This is a financial professional who will take you under their wing, give you inside knowledge and tips, and help guide you in the right direction towards getting a job in finance.

When seeking out a mentor you should look for someone who works in the role or specific area of finance you are interested in.

Keep current with the financial industry

If you can stay on top of financial industry trends, you have the opportunity to impress potential employers or others in your financial network. Consume financial news, read financial-related journals, and take in anything to keep you abreast of the current state of the financial industry.

Seek out entry-level positions

If you don't have experience, you should seek any entry-level roles at financial companies or institutions. You are highly unlikely to gain anything above these unless you have developed premier connections in the financial industry.

Try not to be too picky about what you apply to. At this point, any professional experience in the financial industry is valuable.

Prepare for interviews

Once you have reached the stage where you are ready to apply for financial jobs, do some research on companies you are interested in and try to find out common questions asked during internship interviews. You can usually find this information from postings of previous employees on job websites.