While a politics degree may not be directly related to finance, it equips individuals with a range of transferable skills that are highly valued in the financial industry. Here are some reasons why politics graduates can find opportunities in finance:
- Analytical Skills: Politics programs often emphasize critical thinking and analytical skills, which are crucial for roles involving data analysis, market research, and financial analysis.
- Research and Writing Abilities: Politics graduates are typically skilled in conducting research and presenting information coherently. These skills are valuable in financial research, report writing, and market analysis.
- Communication Skills: Politics programs emphasize effective communication, both written and oral. This is essential in finance for client interactions, presentations, and effective communication within teams.
- Adaptability: Politics graduates often develop adaptability and the ability to understand complex issues. In the dynamic field of finance, adaptability is key to navigating changing market conditions and regulations.
- Ethical Considerations: Studying politics often involves discussions about ethics and morality. Understanding ethical considerations is important in finance, especially in roles related to compliance and risk management.
- Problem-Solving Skills: Politics graduates are trained to analyse problems and propose solutions. This skill set is applicable in various areas of finance, such as risk management and financial planning.
- Policy and Regulatory Knowledge: A politics degree can provide insights into the policy and regulatory environment, which is crucial in finance, where adherence to regulations is essential.
- Networking and Relationship-Building: Politics graduates often develop strong networking and relationship-building skills, which are valuable in finance for client relationship management, business development, and networking within the industry.
- Quantitative Skills: Depending on the specific program and courses taken, politics graduates may have developed quantitative skills, which can be useful in finance roles that involve data analysis and financial modelling.
- International Perspective: Politics graduates may have an international perspective and an understanding of global affairs, which is beneficial in finance, especially in roles related to international business and finance.
It’s important for politics graduates interested in finance to highlight these transferable skills on their resumes and cover letters. Additionally, gaining relevant experience through internships, networking, and possibly pursuing additional qualifications or certifications in finance can enhance their competitiveness in the financial job market. Many financial firms value a diverse range of educational backgrounds, recognizing that skills developed in disciplines like politics can contribute positively to the industry. Its often daunting when people question, ‘what can you do with your degree ?’ as there is often the expectation you can only work in your degree specific sector. The reality is that studying subjects whatever it may be, provide a whole wealth of transferable skills which can be applied to different sectors.