Financial services are the business activities that support and facilitate personal and business transactions involving money. Whether they are saving for retirement, buying a home or paying for an emergency service, people count on the financial services industry to be there for them when they need it most. It’s also important to note that companies in this industry play a key role in supporting healthy economies throughout the world.
When most people think about the financial services industry, they picture banks, brokers and mortgage lenders. They may forget that they’re part of a larger sector that also includes insurance companies, asset management firms and more. In addition, the financial services industry also encompasses credit-card companies and payments systems like Apple Pay and Amazon Pay.
If you’re interested in working in this exciting industry, it’s best to have a plan for how you want your career to evolve. If you aren’t sure where to start, consider a summer internship or finding a mentor to help you get your foot in the door of your chosen field. It’s also a good idea to research the industry before you go into an interview. Knowing the lingo can make a huge difference in how well you’re able to articulate your value.
However, Duitch warns that not all jobs in the industry will pave the way to a career in the sector you’re passionate about. For instance, if you want to be an investment banker, a job as a teller isn’t going to get you there.
