Fintech encompasses a broad range of interests that incorporate the use of technology in managing finances. This involves anything from eCommerce to the use of mobile apps for individual businesses. Even though you may have the skills needed in finance, you will also have to develop knowledge and expertise in the adaptation of technology before you can pursue a fintech career.
Technical Skills
The technical skills you will need to develop through education and training will depend on the type of fintech career you want to develop. For example, you’ll need to have graphic design skills and an understanding of HTML programming to develop a career in eCommerce and web design. If you want to develop mobile apps for businesses, you’ll need to know how to write those types of programs. You can always evolve your career in the future, but you should start with a basic understanding of the skills you will need.
Soft Skills
Many people in the fintech industries end up pursuing entrepreneurial projects. For that reason, you should have good communication skills, a natural ability to lead, and an ability to interpret analytics from multiple sources. You should also be good at problem-solving, and you should be able to perform efficiently within a team. These soft skills will help you to be productive in any environment, allowing you to work well for others or succeed with your own startup.
How to Start Your Fintech Career
As previously mentioned, you should focus on a particular niche within fintech to help you determine what hard skills you will need to develop. Even after you get basic education and earn your degree, you will have to keep up with new advances as they emerge. You may also want to add to your qualifications by earning another degree in a different fintech niche. Continuing your education throughout your career will add to your skillset and make you more valuable to potential employers.
Just like any other type of career, it’s also important to start networking as early as possible. Look for others who have an interest in fintech or those who already have careers in this field. By developing a wide and diverse network, you’ll learn more, hear about a new job or investment opportunities, and you’ll find new ways to expand your network even further.