The most appealing factors of a financial services career

Research from recruitment company Robert Half Financial Services has revealed the most appealing factors of a career in the financial services industry.

The research, which coincided with International Accounting Day, found that 34 per cent of financial services leaders believe a career in the industry is attractive.

Confident

Despite 95 per cent of financial services executives believing that finding skilled millennials is a challenge and 58 per cent believing that it is “very challenging”,97 per cent are confident that a career in the financial services industry is still appealing to millennials.

Salary was considered to be the most appealing factor of the industry, with this being cited by 67 per cent of financial services leaders. This was followed by bonus (49 per cent), career advancement (42 per cent), and job content/responsibilities (36 per cent).

Workplace flexibility, corporate culture and non-monetary benefits were also found to be some of the most appealing factors of the financial services industry. These were cited by 35 per cent, 31 per cent and, 3 per cent respectively.

The study also revealed the top skills that financial services executives look for, with well-developed communication skills being the most sought-after at 46 per cent. This was followed by the ability to sell or influence others (42 per cent) and well-developed analytical skills (38 per cent).

Eager

Robert Half Financial Services UK Director Matt Weston commented: “Graduates looking to pursue a career in financial services should focus on highlighting both their soft skills alongside their technical skills and education. Now more than ever, financial services firms are looking to hire graduates who are eager to progress and have the right cultural fit for a successful future with the organisation.”