Looking for a New Role in Financial Services? Here’s How to Stand Out in 2025
If you’re thinking of making a career move in 2025, you’re not alone. At IRCFS, we’ve seen a surge in high-calibre financial services professionals exploring new roles—whether for growth, flexibility, culture, or compensation.
But competition is rising, and expectations from hiring managers are higher than ever.
Here’s how to make your profile stand out—and secure the role you truly want—in today’s fast-moving market.
1. Tailor Your CV for Every Application
One-size-fits-all CVs are no longer effective. Hiring managers (and recruitment partners) expect candidates to show alignment with the role from the very first glance.
Quick wins:
- Start with a short professional summary that mirrors the job description.
- Use bullet points to highlight specific, quantifiable achievements.
- Adjust terminology to reflect industry language (e.g. “asset management” vs. “investment management” depending on the firm).
2. Update Your LinkedIn Profile Strategically
LinkedIn is often the first place recruiters check—even before your CV. A strong, up-to-date profile can open doors you didn’t even know existed.
What to focus on:
- A clear headline (“Investment Risk Specialist | ESG-Focused | CFA Level II”)
- A compelling About section with your value proposition
- Specific achievements, deals, or outcomes under each role
And yes—make sure your photo is professional and current.
3. Be Clear on What You Want (and Don’t Want)
Before taking calls with recruiters, be prepared to articulate:
- What kind of role you’re looking for
- Your salary expectations (realistically)
- What working style suits you (hybrid, remote, in-office)
- What you don’t want in your next company
Clarity helps recruiters like IRCFS match you with roles that align—not just fill.
4. Polish Your Interview Presence
Remote interviews are still common. That means communication, confidence, and clarity matter more than ever.
Tips we share with candidates:
- Prepare 3–4 clear examples of your work using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result)
- Research the company’s leadership and recent news
- Ask thoughtful questions that show you’re genuinely invested
Bonus: Always follow up with a short thank-you note. It leaves a lasting impression.
5. Partner With a Specialist Recruiter
Working with a recruitment partner who truly understands the financial services landscape can give you a massive edge.
At IRCFS, we:
- Get your profile in front of the right hiring managers
- Offer honest, constructive feedback
- Coach you through the process—from CV to offer
- Only introduce you to opportunities that fit
We’re not about volume—we’re about fit and integrity.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re passively exploring or actively applying, 2025 is a great time to be a skilled professional in financial services. But standing out takes more than technical ability—it takes intention, preparation, and the right support.
If you’re ready to take the next step in your career, we’re here to guide you. Your next move might be one conversation away.