Starting Out in Financial Services? Here’s How to Land Your First Role in 2025
Starting your career in financial services can feel overwhelming. With so many roles, qualifications, and career paths to choose from, it’s hard to know where to begin—especially if you don’t have industry experience yet.
At IRCFS, we’ve helped many first-time job seekers break into the sector—whether in banking, insurance, fintech, wealth management, or compliance. If you’re motivated, coachable, and willing to learn, you already have what many employers are looking for.
Here’s our step-by-step guide to landing your first role in financial services in 2025.
1. Understand the Landscape: What Roles Are Out There?
You don’t need to be a trader or an actuary to work in finance. Entry-level roles exist across:
- Operations & client services
- Risk, compliance & regulatory support
- Sales support & relationship management
- Product or project coordination
- Finance & accounting support
- Tech, data, and fintech operations
💡 Tip: Look beyond job titles. “Client executive” at one firm could mean “junior account manager” at another.
2. Craft a CV That Shows Potential, Not Just Experience
Even if you don’t have formal work experience, your CV can still stand out. Focus on transferable skills, personality traits, and academic or volunteer achievements that show you’re ready to work.
What to highlight:
- Teamwork (from sports, group projects, clubs)
- Time management and attention to detail
- Initiative—any time you solved a problem or improved something
- Communication—written, verbal, or digital
- Technical proficiency (Excel, PowerPoint, CRM systems, coding basics)
3. Get Familiar With the Basics of the Industry
Even if you’re not expected to be an expert, knowing the basics of financial services will set you apart.
Start by:
- Following industry news (e.g. Financial Times, Bloomberg, City A.M.)
- Learning what the FCA is and what it does
- Understanding key terms: compliance, KYC, ESG, risk, front/middle/back office
- Watching explainer videos or taking free online intro courses (Coursera, LinkedIn Learning)
4. Optimise Your LinkedIn Profile (Yes, You Need One)
You don’t need 10 years of experience to be visible online. LinkedIn is where hiring managers and recruiters check for potential—and where you can showcase your goals and personality.
Checklist for first-time jobseekers:
- Add a professional photo
- Write a clear headline (“Aspiring Financial Services Professional | Open to Opportunities”)
- Use the “About” section to share your motivation, goals and interests
- List coursework, certifications, or voluntary work
5. Work With a Specialist Recruiter (Yes, Even Early in Your Career)
You don’t have to figure it all out alone. Specialist recruiters like IRCFS work with junior and entry-level candidates every week—and we can help you find the right opportunity, not just any job.
We offer:
- Guidance on your CV and applications
- Honest feedback to help you grow
- Access to roles that aren’t advertised
- Support throughout the interview and offer process
Final Thoughts
Breaking into financial services takes preparation, self-awareness, and the right support—but it’s 100% possible. Whether you’re a graduate, career changer, or just starting out, there’s a place for you in this industry.
If you’re ready to start exploring entry-level roles—or just want advice on where you fit—our team is here to help.