With FinTech becoming one of the fastest growing industries, not just in the financial sector, but across all global industries, it is no wonder that more and more young professionals are looking to enter this field.
To get a job in FinTech without experience, it is important that you first get to know the many layers of the sector and hone your chosen skills. This often includes applying for internships, taking advantage of opportunities that come your way, and connecting with people in the field.
In this article I discuss how you can get started with FinTech if you have no experience. Keep reading to learn more about what you need to do to develop your skills and make valuable connections.
Work on your studies and build relevant skills
Whether you are still studying at university, have already graduated or are starting an academic course for the first time – to get into FinTech, you need to focus your studies on relevant areas.
These include topics such as:
In reality, there are many overlapping industries that fall under the FinTech umbrella. To get the most out of your studies, look for classes, online courses, workshops and more that will give you real-life assignments and projects.
Additionally, you'll want to find a program that encourages collaboration. While the ability to work independently is a strong skill, sharpening your teamwork skills is just as important as FinTech is a highly communicative and collaborative sector.
Search for internships and co-op positions
One of the best ways to get your foot in the door and really give FinTech a solid trial run is through unpaid or low-paying opportunities like internships or co-op positions.
These types of positions not only give you experience to put on your resume, but also a taste of what it's like to work in FinTech. Additionally, many internships often help companies connect with new talent coming out of college or other educational pathways. Working in such roles can open up new opportunities for you to be part of a company's team in the long term.
During your time in these roles, it is important to get the most out of them. To do that, you need to ask to be included in projects and connect with as many professionals as possible within the company you are interning for.
Kom in contact met FinTech-professionals
Speaking of reaching out to professionals, this is something you should actively try to do whenever possible.
Today, there are many websites designed specifically to help professionals in related fields connect and network with each other - one of the best known is LinkedIn. Since FinTech is already a digital field, FinTech attracts people who have an online presence. This makes it easier to find a wealth of willing mentors and advisors online.
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Make a lasting connection and ask the right questions
When approaching FinTech professionals, you should aim to demonstrate your enthusiasm for the sector and your willingness to learn and develop in your own career. This is the first step to making a lasting positive impression, as driven team members are what most FinTech companies look for first.
When it comes to what to ask, inquiring about open positions or upcoming opportunities is crucial, but it also pays to show a genuine interest in someone else's work. Asking others about their successes and projects is a great learning experience, but also a motivating opportunity to see what is possible.
Be honest! People will find it refreshing and respect you if you are open about your current position and your goals. Feel free to tell seniors that you are a student or a new job seeker interested in working in their company. Remember that they too were once students or new seekers, and they will likely respect the courage it took to reach out to them.
Final thoughts
If you want to build a career in FinTech, now is the time to start.
Even if you have no experience, there are actionable steps you can take to pursue this path professionally. Taking online courses, focusing your university studies on FinTech-related areas, completing internships and connecting with FinTech professionals are all great ways to expand your FinTech knowledge and network starting today.
For FinTech enthusiasts living in Canada, CPQi offers a wide range of different positions and opportunities in the country – both in-office and remote. We are interested in hearing from all candidates – even those without a background in FinTech.
To learn more about CPQi's FinTech capabilities, contact us today and visit usCareerskant.
