For new or aspiring fintech professionals, breaking into this relatively young industry can be daunting. Fortunately, there are ways to stand out and increase your credibility with hiring managers, even without years of experience.
To help, Forbes Finance Council members share their best advice for those looking to start or transition into a career in fintech. From gaining foundational knowledge to attending industry events, these strategies can help you get your foot in the door to begin your new professional journey.
1. Hone Data Analysis Skills
Hone your skills in technical areas like data analysis. There are countless online courses focused on data analytics, and even basic skills in this area can translate well in a fintech role. Some of the most cutting-edge fintech and fintech products revolve around use cases that hinge on real-time data exchange, so knowledge in this space presents immediate value. – Mit Shah, Method Financial
2. Stay Curious
Stay curious and build a solid foundation in finance and technology. Even with little experience, demonstrating a passion for the industry and a willingness to learn can set you apart. Leverage transferable skills from other fields and connect with anyone you can. You never know who’ll help you, either now or later. Hiring managers often value potential and enthusiasm over direct experience. – Cody Barbo, Trust & Will
3. Gain A Solid Foundation
For individuals new to fintech and lacking experience, focusing on gaining a solid foundation is essential. Start by educating yourself through online courses and staying current with industry trends. Learn skills like data analysis, marketing strategies and understanding financial technologies. Connect with professionals on LinkedIn, attend fintech events and join online communities. – Ryan Showe, Lexington Capital Holdings
4. Make Yourself Memorable To Stand Out
With the sheer number of applicants, standing out is essential. Simply sending a resume won’t cut it. Try sending a LinkedIn voice message or a quick video to get the hiring manager’s attention. Today’s work environment is highly competitive, and the most skilled candidates often don’t get seen—so be bold and make yourself memorable. – Chris Seveney, 7e investments
5. Show You Can Do The Job Well
The best way to attract hiring managers is to show that one can do the job well. However, that doesn’t mean one needs to have extensive experience in the traditional sense. Perhaps there are projects, whether from work or hobbies, courses and other activities that can demonstrate the interest and potential to work in the industry. – Daniele Viappiani, GC1 Ventures
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6. Learn The Basics Through Online Courses
Learn the basics through online courses and work on personal projects. Build your online presence by sharing insights and networking on LinkedIn. Show your passion for fintech and your eagerness to learn. – Ivan Lunegov, Olimp Capital Partners
7. Develop Key Skills And Attend Industry Events
Fintech professionals can attract hiring managers by emphasizing transferable skills, even with no experience. They should focus on developing key skills like data analysis, coding and understanding financial regulations. Attending industry events, participating in fintech discussions and showcasing personal projects or internships can also help demonstrate initiative and readiness for the field. – Nike Ajao, OneBarrow Corporation
8. Network And Get Hands-On Experience
Keep that curiosity burning and never stop learning. Networking is your golden ticket—rub elbows with industry pros, hit up events and join online communities. Get hands-on experience through internships, projects or startups—it’s priceless. Don’t forget to unleash your inner problem solver. Lastly, keep a close watch on regulations and compliance, as it is paramount in the evolving landscape. – Pankaj Vasani, Cube Highways InvIT
9. Understand The Market And Necessary Skills
My first question would be to ask if they have a good understanding of what they want to do and if they believe they have the basic and foundational skills to start the journey. If not, that should be what they work on to acquire. As a new business, networking is also important, as you need to see and understand what the market wants and align this with what you seek to offer. – Richard Okon, St Nicholas Hospital
10. Create A Speciality Fitting Your Interests
Even outside of banking, aspirant fintech experts should create a unique specialty that fits their interests or previous expertise. Present yourself as someone who can close gaps in the sector, produce material highlighting your expertise and develop your own brand. – Neil Anders, Trusted Rate, Inc.
11. Build A Foundation In Finance, Technology And Regulation
Aspiring fintech professionals should build a solid foundation in finance, technology and regulation. Attract hiring managers by pursuing certifications, networking and showing a proactive approach to learning. Highlight transferable skills like problem-solving and adaptability to stand out, even with limited experience. – Andre Pennington, Universal Wealth
12. Highlight Transferrable Skills
Highlight transferrable skills. Even without direct fintech experience, emphasize relevant skills from past roles or projects, like problem-solving, communication, teamwork and analytics. Show how these skills apply to fintech and demonstrate your potential value as a candidate, regardless of your specific industry background. – JD Morris, RHC 21 LLC (a SPE Fund) with family of Special Purpose Entities (SPE or SPV)
13. Mix Finance Smarts With Tech Expertise
In fintech, having a solid grasp of both finance and technology is key. Knowing your way around financial principles helps you apply tech solutions effectively. Pair this with tech skills like data analysis, and a bit of AI or automation know-how. This mix of finance smarts and tech expertise lets you tackle challenges and drive innovation in the fintech industry. – Nick Chandi, Forwardly
14. Show That You Are Dynamic
Fintech is ever-changing, and as a candidate, you need to show that you’re dynamic and can keep pace with the industry. If you’re pursuing an undergraduate degree, consider courses in math and science. These principles will serve you well in fintech. Differentiate yourself by demonstrating your passion—create a program, game or website, and join clubs to network with like-minded professionals. – Zach Brody, Lumiere Financial
15. Demonstrate A Passion For Innovation
Focus on building strong technical skills, while staying informed on industry trends. Networking is imperative. Attend fintech events and connect with industry leaders. Highlight transferable skills from previous roles, such as problem-solving or project management, and demonstrate a passion for innovation to attract hiring managers. – Marlon Sanchez, Skyway Pacific Research
The information provided here is not investment, tax, or financial advice. You should consult with a licensed professional for advice concerning your specific situation.
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