A career in global finance starts with training in fundamental business concepts that apply across national boundaries as well as the financial market forces that influence the global economy. The advent of the digital age has made the world somewhat smaller in terms of social, political and economic perspectives. Many businesses now find it feasible to expand into overseas markets through leaner logistical systems and more liberal trade agreements among countries. Business people trained in navigating the global finance markets help companies in a variety of industries penetrate foreign markets successfully. Here are some typical routes that business professionals take to reach their global financial career aspirations.
Determine Specialized Interests, Skills and Aspirations
When beginning a career in global finance, it is best to keep the end goal in mind. The job market for finance professionals is extremely specialized so before one searches for education and training opportunities it is best to understand one’s own specific interests and abilities. After conducting an honest assessment of one’s interests and skills, a business professional may find a match within the various finance concentration areas. For example, a business professional with great communication and people skills who has an interest in strategic management may choose to become a global financial analyst, auditor or a corporate financial manager. Finance professionals who hold these positions set corporate financial strategy for multinational companies, generate profit and loss projections and coordinate with third-party auditors that help keep the career field ethical and fair. Other finance professionals who thrive on quantitative analysis find their niche within the mergers and acquisitions finance specialty.
Identify the Right Academic Degree Program
Although an undergraduate degree in business, accounting or finance is helpful in establishing foundational financial analysis skills, most global finance professionals possess a graduate degree in international business with concentrations in various areas of financial management. Top rated, graduate level international business degree programs usually require two or more years of study by program participants based on their previous academic backgrounds. The first year of many programs include advanced courses in economics, accounting, financial analysis and international trade policy. The second year incorporates more specialized global finance topics pertaining to central banks, the economic environments of leading international economies like ones in Asia and specific country financial risk analysis. Some of the best international business degree curricula in global finance incorporate study abroad programs. This allows students to immerse themselves in a country’s culture while putting their technical skills to work.
Explore Internship Opportunities
Excellent global finance graduate degree programs often have associated school career centers that help new graduates find internships and other employment opportunities. These colleges and universities usually encourage students to join and actively participate in related professional organizations. Following this advice is key to getting one’s name and face in front of prominent players within this career field. Additionally, students with excellent academic and professional track records find specialized global finance internship positions by searching international finance job boards.
Conclusion
The career field of global finance is an exciting one for those with keen problem solving abilities and a willingness to develop inter-cultural communication skills. The combined academic classroom instruction, study abroad opportunities, and work experience through internships adequately prepares a business professional for a career in global finance.
