Getting a graduate job in finance is a highly competitive process. It is extremely important to have some sort of experience, if possible an internship at a financial services firm, if you want to stand a good chance of getting a graduate job in the industry.
Finding a Finance Internship
[Edit]Most large investment banks and financial organisations offer short-term internships or placements. Getting such as internship is extremely competitive, the reason being:
- employers are much more likely to hire graduates with experience
- work experience is a great way to find out about an industry, learn about a job and make valuable contacts,
- employers often make full-time job offers to high calibre interns
Other Benefits of an Internship
[Edit]More specifically, internships offer students a range of great benefits, such as:
- the development of transferable business skills, such as knowledge of financial software and awareness of the different finance functions within organisations
- insight into the day-to-day operations of a real business
- help in deciding which specialist route you may choose to eventually follow
- the chance to earn a wage, whilst learning
- a work placement demonstrates a candidate's commitment to a particular industry or career
