Working in finance doesn’t just require math skills, it also requires some experience with technology. While children in elementary, middle, and high schools are exposed to computers and software programs at a very young age, not everyone has had the opportunity to develop strong technology skills in the classroom.
All professionals who are going to apply for finance positions need to possess at least a minimal amount of technology skills. Here are the skills that you will need to possess to market yourself as an applicant who is ready to make a difference in a finance firm.
Related Resource: 50 Best Online Master of Finance Degree Programs 2018
Bookkeeping Programs
At some point or another, you are going to work with bookkeeping programs when you are a professional within a finance firm. You may not be a bookkeeper, but as an entry-level professional you will be accessing these programs to account for the company’s finances. Knowing how to navigate through bookkeeping and other accounting software is a must whenever you are marketing yourself and highlighting your skills.
Experience with Structured Query Language
More and more accounting firms and financial companies are looking for finance professionals who have specialized knowledge. Since many of the database programs and technology platforms use Structured Query Language, otherwise known as SQL, it has become an increasingly important technology skill. If you have some familiarity with SQL that is used in programs like SQL-Ledger and also in Microsoft Access, you will be far more desirable than those who don’t possess that knowledge.
Familiarity With Analytics Programs
The entire industry has been transformed by advancements in different database programs and also analytic programs. These programs help to automate tasks that don’t require human interaction. They also help to eliminate errors and to make professionals more efficient.
Candidates for positions should have skills in both predictive and prescriptive analytics programs. It is also important for data analysis professionals to familiarize themselves with cybersecurity protocols so that data is not compromised. With a technical expertise in IT security and how to keep data safe within all databases, you can be an asset to your company.
Experience with Mobile Applications
Digital skills that can be used in mobile applications should also be a focus. Since many different firms are using applications that help to streamline workflow processes and decrease the need for several systems at once, knowing how to navigate through the cloud and mobile applications can be a very valuable technology skill set.
A Robust Skill Set
When you study for an accounting or economics degree, you are going to learn about the theories that will be focused on the field. Many schools do require those who are graduating from AACSB-accredited programs to take some introductory technology courses. It is up to you take more advanced coursework that will be used within your career so that you can add marketable technology skills to your resume.
According to Strategic Finance, raising your technical intelligence is a goal you should strive for. Being technologically-literate will be a must in almost any type of professional career that you pursue. If you are going to work in a financial setting for a firm or directly for a corporation, you can’t only focus on building your traditional skill set. Make sure that you are ready to be equipped with the knowledge that you need to succeed in technology initiatives whenever you want to compete with other graduates for finance jobs.
