Do you want to start a career in finance without a finance degree? It may not be easy, but you can make it.
Changing the course of your career can be challenging, more so when you do not have a degree in a specific field. However, it is not impossible since you can get a job in finance without formal education.
Besides, online finance courses can help you bridge the gap between your ambitions and the knowledge you need to achieve that. Further, it offers you the flexibility that facilitates you to learn when you are already working in a different field.
To know more about how you can pursue a career in finance through online courses, please keep reading.
A Step-by-Step Guide to a Career in Finance
It takes hard work and persistence to start a career in finance. While many roles require you to have a certain amount of experience or a master’s degree, some do not. You need to pick these jobs and start your journey.
Step #1. Choose a Specific Area of Interest
There are many sub-branches in finance, so you need to determine your specific area of interest. It includes Financial Planning, Personal Finance, Corporate Finance, and Public Finance. If you do not know how to pick a category, you can seek help from a friend or a family member in the field.
Once you decide on the sub-branch, you can move on to the next step.
Step #2. Education and Training
This is where you look for online finance courses. These courses will equip you with background knowledge and skills. Plus, advanced courses will aid you in performing a variety of tasks to gain practical knowledge.
After completing the courses, you will be equipped with the necessary details. It includes understanding financial statements to analyze performance, plan, develop, and control budgets.
It is advisable to do as many courses as possible. Additionally, you should complete certifications as well.
Step #3. Seek Entry-Level Jobs
With relevant courses and certifications, you can get an entry-level job in finance. You can get a job as an accounting clerk or an assistant financial advisor. Either way, experience is crucial when you want to launch into a new career landscape.
Step #4. Expand Your Portfolio
In addition to online courses, you need to engage in more activities and diversify your portfolio. You can start by contributing to a finance blog or creating one yourself. Additionally, do an internship or two to gain hands-on experience.
Alternatively, you can link up with a mentor to improve your skills. It can be a family friend or a college professor who has a successful career in the field.
You can also take up case studies of businesses to expand your understanding of real-world finances.
After a few months or years of experience, you can apply for your desired job. With enough expertise and knowledge, you can land a lucrative position in finance.
By dedicating enough time to your new career pursuits, you can certainly get a foot in the door in this field. Plus, online finance courses can help you kickstart your career.
Then, you have to work on your portfolio and find a suitable entry-level job to gain industry experience. Additionally, consult a career advisor to understand your options better.
With these steps in front of you, all that is left is to take the leap.