Creating a professional CV and covering letter can be tricky, especially if you have limited work experience. You’ll need to learn how to target your CV and covering letter to the company and job that you’re applying for. Your degree will have taught you a host of subject-specific, transferable skills. But selling them to employers is vital in a competitive job market. Take a look at our advice on crafting and creating a compelling CV perfect for the finance industry.

It’s not only what you know that helps you in the job market, but who you know. Advertised jobs are just the start of the available opportunities and you will need to be comfortable approaching people to discuss job opportunities. This may seem daunting at first but ‘soft skills’ (including communication and presentation skills) can be learned and developed. The investment industry is a people-based sector and professional networking has always been important for career progression. Meeting more people = more opportunities to find jobs, but socializing can also be fun and a motivating feature of finance careers. CFA Institute and CFA Society membership open doors to networking throughout the investment profession globally.

Your LinkedIn profile is a valuable resource for students to start your professional presence online. It is a way to develop your own personal brand and stay aware of career opportunities. Having an account shows that you are dedicated to pursuing a career. Connecting with other students may not seem relevant at the time, but you do not know when your paths may cross some years down the line. Use our advanced writing strategies to build and develop your LinkedIn profile.