We are a recruiter for professional services in London’s vibrant finance and banking sector, and we often get several new candidates in the new year, all looking for this change. But is a job in finance ultimately right for them, and have they thought about what they need to be satisfied at work?

To decide, we recommend weighing the pros and cons of working in finance. Here’s a list to help you make up your mind.

The pros and cons of working in finance

Pros:

• Frequent opportunities for career growth and advancement, which are often tied to measurable achievements.
• Exposure to diverse challenges, which keeps work dynamic and engaging.
• High earning potential compared to many other industries.
• Prestige in working for often high-profile companies.
• Opportunities to work in global markets or with influential clients.

Cons:

• High-stress environments, especially in roles with tight deadlines or significant financial stakes.
• Long, demanding hours, which could lead to burnout.
• Competitive culture, which may not suit everyone.
• Requires continuous learning and the ability to adapt to market changes, which some may not enjoy.

Weigh these based on your priorities. How important is a work-life balance? What is your tolerance for stress? And, quite simply, are you passionate about working in finance?

Is your personality a good fit for finance?

Many of the above pros and cons also reflect individual personalities. We feel that those best suited to a career in finance include the following:

• Analytical mindset: Are you comfortable working with data and carrying out complex problem-solving?
• Resilience: Can you handle stress, criticism, and a fast-paced environment?
• Attention to detail: Do you take pains to ensure accuracy? In finance, small errors can have big consequences!
• Adaptability: Can you stay effective in rapidly changing markets?
• Strong communication skills: Are you good at explaining financial concepts clearly?
• Ambition and drive: Can you thrive in competitive, results-oriented environments?

Of course, no one needs to have all of the above to excel in finance, even though it helps! If you feel that you are stronger in some categories than others, consider the following roles:

• Analytical mindset: Consider investment analytics, forecasting, and quantitative analytics roles.
• Resilience: Consider roles in financial advising or planning.
• Attention to detail: Consider roles in financial modelling and risk management.
• Adaptability: Consider roles in wealth management.
• Strong communication skills: Consider client-facing roles in investment banking or corporate sales.
• Ambition and drive: Consider mergers and acquisitions (M&A) roles.

If you want a personalised quiz, get it from Financial Edge: Finance Career Quiz!

Ultimately, we urge our candidates to consider their natural strengths and preferences over prestige when choosing a career path in finance. This is the surest way that you will find a career that fulfils you.

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Still trying to learn what you need from your career? Let us help you! We offer a range of roles, from entry to senior, in finance & banking and beyond. Aldrich & Co is always looking for the best candidates that London has to offer its incredible, dynamic firms.