Graduated in December with a finance degree, super motivated, thought I'd hit the ground running. But every “entry-level” job I’ve seen asks for 3–5 years of experience, proficiency in 5 different systems, and half a CFA. I’ve applied to 30+ roles and haven’t even gotten a phone screen. It’s hard not to feel defeated this early in the game. How did you actually land your first break in finance when every “starter” job feels impossible to qualify for?

like
Posting as :
works at
You are currently posting as works at

Entry-level in finance means "entry-level for someone who already worked two internships and knows someone at BlackRock." It's a scam. They should stop calling them entry-level and just be honest: “we want someone who already did the job, but cheaper.”

like

I totally get how you’re feeling. When I was in your shoes, I applied to tons of jobs and faced the same frustrations. For me, landing that first job came down to networking and finding ways to gain practical experience outside of traditional roles, internships, volunteering, even personal projects. Have you been able to tap into any networking groups or career fairs? They can sometimes open doors faster than just applying cold.

like

I guess I’ve been more fortunate in seeing 1-3 years of experience, still though very difficult even when I am meeting the more basic requirements. Not hearing back on anything. Looking at a lot of different roles just to try and start building somewhere.

Related Posts

like

Thoughts on Fox Rothschild?

like

Is someone able to compare the culture of Google to Microsoft?

like

Which one is better for a bachelor in bangalore (Manyata) .... PG or flat

Hard earned mean -🐢

Post Photo
like

😂 this is too real

Post Photo
likefunny

Average salary for EY - Manager Federal Tech R. DC metro area? 5 years of experience.

How to stay up to date as a software architect?
I've migrated from being a software engineer to a software architect role.

I'm looking for ways to stay up to date with architectural trends and patterns so that I can stay well rounded and up to date on current trends and ways to solve problems.

Any suggestions?

like

How is everyone approaching educating current and potential clients on the Secure Act?

like

Anyone joining Salesforce Bangalore office anytime soon and looking for flats to rent near office?

like

Maybe this sounds privileged.. or plain dumb... I just got back from a really fun vacation and I’m sad! Guess i got the “back to real life” blues. How do I get back to my happy self!??

like

Does anyone have a preferred car service company? I am looking for a service that can consistently provide traveler alerts such as when car has arrived, passenger is on board, trip competed, etc. across US cities. I have found a company that will do this when I book travel in NYC, but when my Professionals arrive in their destination cities the affiliates do not offer this same feature. Any suggestions? Thank you!

like

Any recommendations for hikes/nature walks up to 2 hours away?

like

TCS has given the BGV check to some vendor and today I got the message from that vendor to verify my Permanent address by clicking a link and then by enabling my location and taking selfie in front of house. I am not staying at my permanent address but I am at my present address. How can I take selfie and enable my mobile location and submit the form. Please someone suggest. @Tcs

How much salary does jp pay to promoted associates in India? Which are not in tech

like

Anyone in the consulting industry willing to do an informational interview? I have 2 years of industry experience in corporate operations

Do any of the Big 4 have big Deal Advisory/Transaction Advisory practices in the Phoenix area?

like

Big 4 junior level feels while trying to get promoted with no raises, no bonuses, no travel benefits, and 60 hour weeks with no separation between work/home “but you should just be happy you haven’t been laid off”

Post Photo
likefunny

New associate starting in the tax group at a biglaw firm in NYC. Would really appreciate any advice on how to be most useful/get through the learning curve!

like

Ugh the attorney filed my H1B transfer case to the wrong USCIS center and caused 13 days delay 😤😤😤

like

Additional Posts in Jobs in Finance

I am starting at a new company early next year and they’ve just invited me to attend their Christmas party. Is it a good idea to go? Or should I wait for a more formal introduction once I start?

like

I was offered a high net worth client associate position with fidelity. I have never worked in a call center environment.
Can anyone that has worked in that position tell me what its like and what to expect? Is it more like an administrative position and boring or do you really get to help clients? All feedback is appreciated!

likeuplifting

Hi everyone, I'm new to Canada and want to start my career here in the Financial and Banking industry. I have passed the CFA level 2 exam and was wondering if I have to complete the Canadian Securities Course (CSC) as most of the job postings here mention about it. I saw that if someone passes at least the CFA level 1 exam then the requirement of CSC is exempted. Can anyone enlighten me about this? As the CSC exam costs above 1000 CAD, I wanted to be sure if I need it before investing behind it.

like

Any advice on transitioning from a Wealth Management Role to something more analytical? Preferably private equity or investment analysis/due diligence. Have about 4 YOE, located in Boston

like

How often do you cry at your job? I cry usually one day a week triggered by stress/overwhelm but want to know if this is a typical response

like

I’m 2 years out of college and have been working at a bank as a corporate accountant. I’m thinking about making a transition from to IB/ more finance oriented role. Any advice?

like

Is there anyone that works as a Mainframe Data Analyst at Bank of America ? I see an opening and would like to learn more about the day-to-day and projects. TYIA.

like

I have been approached with an opportunity at JP Morgan Chase for their private client advisor role. The book is about 30M all in. I am currently an experienced hybrid asset manager wholesaler and have experience in advising as well. Curious about the opportunity with JPM and if it’s worth it. I currently make about 160k and if JPM would give me a high draw for the first 3 years to build, and if it’s feasible to sustain that 160+ there.

like

Are any firms out there that are hiring full-time/remotely? Let's start a list

likehelpful

Hi all,

Can anyone share some insights on the Associate managing consultant role at Mastercard? I am curious to understand the culture, the projects and the salary as well.

I can't DM yet as I am new so please feel free to DM me.

like

Hi! This is post is for a friend who was recently laid off due to budget constraints at their company. They’re actively looking for new roles in Business Analytics, Finance or a combination of both. Any referral would be extremely appreciated.

like

I'm in finance/tech FPA, looking to go back to the defense industry for a 25% increase in TC. But wanted to see if I should leverage the new salary with current company to see if they'll match.

Background: got a promotion at current company that didn't come with sufficient increase . After stating my case I was told it would be evaluated next October, which is what prompted the initial job search.

Current TC 103K [88/15], offer 125k base [+discretionary bonus].

like

I am an Indian CPA and pursuing my level 2 Cfa. I have worked with family office and Swf and have relocated to Vancouver. Any tips on where to begin my job search

I'm the only employee with a background in finance in a tech startup growing at a 300%+ per year. But it's actually my first finance-related experience (interned and now part-time as I'm in my senior year of undergrad) and don't know really how to have an impact as my knowledge is "limited" and have no technical mentorship.

Any advice/mentorship would be wonderful!

I have an interview Bloomberg for sales and analytics, can anyone give insight to what to expect at the super day?

like

Anyone in Corp Dev M&A? Received verbal offer today and it was a total boner killer that sounds non negotiable. Offer came thru random guy in HR vs hiring mgr/director and seriously considering going around hr cause the guy sounded lazy asf.@

Would like to understand market comp for in office CD roles, 4+yrs m&a experience and 25-40 advisories under belt. It’s an F500. Basically a pay cut of like 60-75% lol, idk if they’re testing me or serious. Edit: Happy to give any additional details.

likefunny

Hi y’all! I’m a financial educator and my job is to help families in need of financial education! I help anyone on learning how money works here in the US & how to get rid of debt! I offer financial products that help you protect and grow your money. I’d love to help you out in reaching your personal financial needs!
I’m also always looking for people to hire!

like

Hey everyone,
I just applied for
Citi bank for an AML compliance analyst position. It’s a hybrid position in Tampa FL. Any feedback on the company, salary, Company values, benefits please and thank you. Citi

like

Recently relocated to USA. Looking for a job in Private equity Accounting in California as Fund Accountant Manager. Any leads and also, how much salary should I expect?

Has anyone done the Blackstone pymetrics?

like

New to Fishbowl?

Download the Fishbowl app to
unlock all discussions on Fishbowl.
That was just a preview…
Sign Up to see all discussions
  • Discover what it’s like to work at companies from real professionals
  • Get candid advice from people in your field in a safe space
  • Chat and network with other professionals in your field
Sign up in seconds to unlock all discussions on Fishbowl.

Already a user?
Login here

Share

Embed this post

Copy and paste embed code on your site

Preview

Download the
Fishbowl app

See what’s happening in your industry
from the palm of your hand.

A phone with Fishbowl app

Scan your QR code to download
Fishbowl app on your mobile

Download app

Sign up for free to view this conversation on Fishbowl

By continuing you agree to Terms of Use and Privacy Policy

Already have an account? Log in

Sign up for free to continue using Fishbowl

By continuing you agree to Terms of Use(New) and Privacy Policy(New)
Messaging rates may apply

Already have an account? Log in

For account settings, visit Fishbowl on Desktop Browser or

General

Legal