Before learning how to get into fintech, we have to understand what fintech actually means. Fintech sits at the intersection between finance and technology, modernizing our traditional finance with cutting-edge technologies to reproduce leaner and efficient systems of finance.
Although Fintech shares only hold 2% of global financial services revenue, its rapid increase forecasts its annual revenue to hit $1.5 trillion dollars by 2030, making it consist of almost 25% of the global banking valuation.
This positive trajectory is a strong indicator that despite the economic downtrends that caused unemployment waves in late 2022 and 2023, the long-term value of the fintech market is undeniably strong and that the people who position themselves for a career in fintech will have a massive advantage amongst their peers.
Key Takeaways
Understand the ever-evolving fintech landscape and assess your suitability for a career in this field.
Develop technical skills, knowledge, soft skills & attributes to build a strong foundation.
Network with others and stay informed of industry trends & innovations to pursue job opportunities and advance your career.
Understanding The Fintech Landscape
The financial technology industry, also known as the fintech industry will continue to be the latest buzzword that combines the financial services sector and modern technology. This has begun creating an entirely new set of unheard career opportunities with high potential for growth.
This rapidly expanding sector includes fintech innovations such as blockchain, artificial intelligence, machine learning, and an increased need for deeper cybersecurity skills; all of which contribute to the ongoing fintech revolution.
With top fintech companies like Stripe, Revolut, and Chime Financial leading the charge, the roles of fintech professionals, also known as fintech talent, similarly mirror technical roles that are found outside of fintech as well such as:
Software engineer
Product Manager
Data analysts
Cybersecurity specialists
UX/UI designers
The difference is that within the fintech space, all these roles focus on optimizing financial transactions and ensuring their security, which requires a certain level of financial literacy as well.
Acquiring the relevant skills along with the necessary financial knowledge can often be found by completing some of the best fintech courses.
These can help you stay abreast of the latest trends and will eventually pave the way for you to become a sought-after fintech expert in this rapidly evolving industry.
Assessing Your Suitability for a Fintech Career
Before embarking on your fintech career, it’s important to evaluate your technical skills, such as programming and data analysis, as well as soft skills like problem-solving, adaptability, and communication.
I have listed the following subsections to provide a deeper understanding of these essential skills and attributes, aiding you in realizing your potential in the fintech space.
Technical Skills and Knowledge
Technical skills and knowledge are the backbone for the longevity of your successful fintech career.
Proficiency in programming languages like Python, data analytics tools such as Power BI, and a strong understanding of financial concepts are crucial for most fintech roles.
Developing these data analytical skills through courses or certifications beforehand equips you to transfer your existing knowledge over and add onto them instead of learning everything from scratch.
Keeping abreast of the latest technologies and tools in the fintech field is also key.
For instance, modern organizations are taking a deep interest in data-driven analytics to validate every business decision.
To assist in this, data visualization capabilities with Tableau are often commonly sought after, while expertise in emerging technologies like blockchain and machine learning can give you a competitive edge in the job market.
Soft Skills and Attributes
Beyond technical expertise, and similar to any other industry, soft skills play a vital role in your success in the fintech industry.
Effective communication, teamwork, and critical thinking are indispensable for fintech professionals.
As majority of consumers may not be aware of the benefits of financial technology, being able to break down complex concepts to both technical and non-technical audiences is a valuable skill that fosters trust and collaboration with your colleagues, customers and clients.
As a fintech professional, curiosity and adaptability are also crucial as you must be able to quickly adapt to new technologies, changing government regulations, industry trends, and business models.
Cultivating these soft skills and attributes not only enhances your marketability in the fintech job market but also allows you to excel in your daily work, driving innovation and growth in the fintech sector.
Building a Strong Foundation in Fintech
Pursuing formal education and acquiring relevant certifications and training are vital to building a strong foundation in fintech.
These credentials not only enhance your skillset but also demonstrate your commitment to the fintech field, making you stand out to potential employers.
The following subsections will highlight the significance of formal education and certifications in carving a successful fintech career.
Pursuing Formal Education
Formal education in finance, technology, or related fields provides a solid foundation for a career in fintech.
With the rise of eLearning, formal degree programs can now be taken fully online with the help of eLearning platforms such as Coursera and EdX.
Whether you’re pursuing an undergraduate degree or enrolling in an online course, a formal education can assure your potential employers that you have some accreditation to your knowledge, and it plays a critical role in laying the groundwork for your future fintech career.
Acquiring Certifications and Training
Certifications and training in high-income skills such as blockchain, AI, and data analytics can significantly boost your marketability in the fintech job market.
The Certified Blockchain Expert by Blockchain Council which has grown to be known widely amongst the fintech community. Blockchain Council, Udemy, and Coursera are excellent options for those looking to expand their knowledge and develop new skills in the fintech sector.
There are numerous certification programs available, ranging from those focused on specific technologies to more general fintech fundamentals.
Pursuing these certifications and training not only keeps you updated with the latest developments in the fintech industry but also positions you as a sought-after fintech professional with a competitive edge.
Staying Updated on Industry Trends and Innovations
Keeping abreast of industry trends and innovations is critical in maintaining competitiveness and making informed decisions in the fintech sector.
The fintech landscape is constantly evolving, with recent advancements such as embedded finance, super apps, and web3 leading the charge in revolutionizing the world of finance.
To stay ahead of the curve, consider subscribing to fintech newsletters and joining online forums such as:
These resources not only provide valuable insights into the latest trends and innovations but also offer networking opportunities with other fintech professionals.
Staying informed and engaged with the fintech community positions you to seize opportunities for growth and specialization in this fast-paced industry.
Networking and Engaging with the Fintech Community
Networking and engaging with the fintech community can help you gain insights, create job opportunities, and stay connected with industry professionals.
Attending fintech events, job fairs, and conferences are viable options for networking with professionals in the fintech industry.
Additionally, online platforms like LinkedIn, Facebook community groups, or a Fintech subreddit such as r/Fintech or r/WallStreetBets can provide valuable networking opportunities in the virtual space.
Establishing a professional network in the fintech community offers several benefits, including:
Opening doors to new job opportunities
Exchanging knowledge and insights with like-minded professionals
Staying updated on the latest trends through industry events and online discussions
Forging valuable relationships that can propel your fintech career forward
Actively participating in these activities can help you build a strong professional network and enhance your career in the fintech industry.
Gaining Hands-on Experience
Gaining hands-on experience is viewed favourably when it comes to building a successful fintech career.
Practical experience through internships, part-time jobs, or personal projects can provide valuable insights into the real world of fintech and enhance your resume.
Employers often value candidates with a proven track record of working on fintech side projects with some examples being:
Market rate aggregators
Price alerts
Digital payments & wallets
Microlending or peer-to-peer lending
To gain hands-on experience, consider seeking internships at fintech startups or financial institutions. These opportunities provide practical knowledge and allow you to build your professional network and transition into full-time roles.
Acquiring hands-on experience better prepares you to tackle scenario-based interview questions and assure your interviewer that you’re the right fit.
Crafting a Compelling Resume and Online Presence
It is vital to craft a compelling resume and establish an online presence to showcase your skills and experience to potential employers.
Your resume should highlight your relevant educational qualifications, certifications, and practical experience in fintech. Emphasizing your knowledge and experience in the fintech sector will help you stand out from the competition and demonstrate your commitment to a career in fintech.
In addition to a strong resume, establishing an online presence through platforms like LinkedIn or personal blogs can further enhance your marketability in the fintech job market.
Sharing insights on the latest fintech trends, participating in online discussions, and connecting with industry professionals can help you build your reputation as a fintech expert and increase your chances of landing your dream fintech job.
Identifying and Pursuing Fintech Job Opportunities
Identifying and pursuing fintech job opportunities involves the following steps:
Research top companies in the fintech industry, such as Coinbase, Stripe, and Binance.
Compile a list of these leading fintech startups and organizations.
Explore the job opportunities they offer.
Leverage your network to find connections and potential job leads in the fintech industry.
Apply for relevant positions at fintech companies.
Consider relocating to cities like New York City and the San Francisco Bay Area, which are known for having a high concentration of fintech job opportunities.
Once you’ve shortlisted potential fintech companies to work for, research their work and demonstrate how you can be a suitable fit for their organization.
Don’t be afraid to send cold emails for job and internship opportunities, as perseverance is crucial in securing a career in fintech.
Actively identifying and pursuing fintech job opportunities brings you one step closer to landing your dream job in this rapidly expanding industry, and it’s a great way to get into fintech.
Continuous Learning and Career Advancement
Continuous learning and career advancement in fintech require staying updated on industry trends, acquiring new skills, and seeking opportunities for growth and specialization.
Develop transferable skills, allocate dedicated time for learning, adopt a learning architecture, and utilize learning tools and programs to facilitate your continuous learning in fintech.
Online courses, webinars, and tutorials offer a wealth of resources for enhancing your knowledge and skills. At the same time, ensure that you upload your courses to LinkedIn to validate your knowledge gained and stand out to recruiters.
Embracing continuous learning and career advancement equips you to navigate the ever-changing fintech landscape and excel in your chosen career path.
My Take
As a Manager who has led Fintech teams in 44 countries, I can assure you that getting into fintech can be the most lucrative investment in your career journey. It opens you up to higher salaries and an entirely new industry with flexibility where you’re able to charter your path in any direction.
Furthermore, the skills and industry-specific knowledge gained during your fintech career will enable you to have a wider understanding of economic cycles, micro and macro economic factors, impacts of legal legislations and so much more. These experiences would eventually groom you into a wiser and smarter individual that is able to navigate the uncertain economy with wisdom and strategy.
By following this comprehensive guide, you’ll be well on your way to a successful and rewarding fintech career that combines the best of finance and technology.
FAQ
Still considering how to get into Fintech? Let my FAQ’s help.
![3 Best Fintech Courses & Certifications For A Fintech Job [2024]](https://careerchartered.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/best-fintech-courses-768x432.png)
