Babes On Bay Street

QMaking a Career Change – From Retail to Finance

The question:

“Hi! I’m 28 years old and looking to do a career change in Finance. The more I learn, the more I realise how little I know, and how much more I have to learn. The world of Finance is MASSIVE and I’m having trouble figuring out where to start or what positions would appeal to me most. I’m in the process of reading many books, taking financial literacy workshops and talking to people in the field. I also want to take the CSC. BUT…I’m a bit intimidated with the idea of applying to firms b/c ALL my work experience is in Fashion Retail (i’m a buyer) and i have a BCOMM in Operations Management. Does this mean I would have to start from scratch (entry-level posistion doing admin work)?

Would you be able to give me some insight about the different position options that would give me a “paid as you learn” experience and would also be promotable to grow in the industry? Also, how would I even be considered as an eligible candidate given that my background that is sooooo different? Do I need to go back and get education? Should I see a head hunter?

thanks so much for your help!! it’s much appreciated b/c no one i know is in this field!! I look forward to hearing from you!!”

The answer:

I think anyone is portable. If you are good at what you do; you can do anything and work anywhere.

As a starting point, I would be certain your strengths which I am guessing are on the creative side are compatible with the strengths of someone who is likely to be successful in finance. However, I do not want to stereotype or prejudge your skills and abilities.

For example, if you have fabulous operational skills and/or an educational background in this area, these skills are definitely transferable to the banking and securities industry.

If you really want to contemplate a career in finance, I suggest you speak with many people in the business to be certain it really captures your interest.

At the end of the day, you would have to be very certain this is something you truly want to do and something you can be successful at because securing a position will not be without its challenges.

Again, I suggest you speak with as many people as you can in the industry. Doing so will facilitate your networking your way into the industry which I believe is the best way to go. I would not recommend seeing a headhunter and relying on them to make it happen for you. This is something you will have to make happen for yourself.

I wish you all  the success in the world!!