What actions can you take now?

Build an online profile

An online profile can include anywhere that information about you features online. The most common online profile in a professional sense, will be a profile on LinkedIn.

Creating a profile on LinkedIn is important for your career, it is often used to source people for new jobs and it is a great opportunity for you to control the first impression someone may form of you.

Whilst not essential, as most people do have LinkedIn profiles, having one can be an extension of your CV and therefore enhance your job applications.

How to create a LinkedIn profile that stands out

Creating a good LinkedIn profile starts with the basics, such as:

  • Adding a good clear picture of yourself, usually your face.
  • Follow companies and influencers that you have an interest in, this will be something a potential employer can see too and help you to demonstrate passion for particular sectors.
  • Stay active on LinkedIn, as this will show any potential employers that you keep up to date online.
  • Adding sector or industry keywords into your introduction can help to boost your views.

Read some more suggestions from LinkedIn on this page.

Checklist of actions to enhance your CV now

Actions to enhance your CV as a school student

  • Talk to a careers advisor at school about your interests and options

  • Work hard for your academic achievements

  • Research the different entry routes into finance,
    for example whether you would choose to start working straight away, go for a school leaver programme or study a degree

  • Create a LinkedIn profile

  • Read finance and business news to build your understanding

  • Explore an interest or hobby outside of school

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Actions to enhance your CV as a university student

  • Create or maintain a LinkedIn profile and connect with those you meet along your studies

  • Read finance and business news, for example subscribe to The Economist

  • Gain practical work experience through an internship in the sector you want to work in

  • Complete an extra qualification if possible

  • Maintain an interest or hobby alongside your degree

  • Research the different areas of financial services and consider what you are most interested by

  • Work with a university careers advisor on your CV, a cover letter and interview technique

  • Explore the companies you might want to work for when you finish your degree

  • Attend career fairs and have conversations with potential employers or those already working in the sector to understand what it might be like

  • Aim to achieve good grades, these are typically important especially for undergraduate or postgraduate placement schemes

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Qualifications that can strengthen your CV

If you are considering a career in finance, there are qualifications that can help to enhance your CV.

This can include a qualification that provides a introductory overview to financial services, such as the CISI’s Fundamentals of Financial Services qualification.

More general reading can also enhance your overall application, especially when it comes to interviews. For example something as simple as keeping up to date with the latest finance news, or news connected to the company you may want to work for.




Study for this qualification in 100 hours
Achieve the Fundamentals of Financial Services qualification
This qualification is an important first step in developing the essential basic knowledge of the financial services sector. Learn about the commonly used financial products such as shares, bonds and insurance and become more familiar with financial terminology.
Study for this qualification in 80 hours
Complete the Introduction to Investment qualification
If you have general knowledge of the financial services sector, this qualification can help you to deepen your understanding with a specific focus on investments. This includes key principles, products, assets and financial markets.