Here's how you can stand out as an entry-level candidate in Corporate Finance.

For entry level positions the recipe is simple 1 - Master Excel - You don't need to be wizard but you MUST now vlookup, sumifs, and other simple formulas 2 - Be accurate - Add consistency checks on the model and it's better to overly check the model than to have someone checking it for you 3 - Be insightfull - Add key comments to your reporting and other routines to facilitate your manager's life

To succeed in an entry-level finance role, start with mastering Excel basics like VLOOKUP. Accuracy is key, so always double-check your work. Add clear notes to your reports to make things easier for your manager. Learning financial modeling and understanding what drives business can help you see the big picture and grow faster.

Financial Modeling: Learn how to build financial models, including cash flow projections, balance sheets, and income statements, which are key in Corporate Finance roles. Excel Mastery: Excel is a fundamental tool in finance. Master functions like VLOOKUP, pivot tables, and macros to handle large datasets effectively. Analytical Thinking: Develop critical thinking and analytical skills to interpret financial data and provide actionable insights. Certifications: Pursue relevant certifications such as CFA Level 1 or courses in financial analysis to demonstrate your commitment and knowledge in the field.

For entry-level candidates in corporate finance, developing technical skills and financial acumen is important. However, to truly stand out, I often recommend junior employees learn to see the bigger picture and communicate a compelling financial narrative. This requires understanding business drivers, key value levers, and proactively building industry awareness from the start.

Attend Industry Events: Participate in finance-related webinars, workshops, and conferences to connect with professionals and stay updated on industry trends. Leverage LinkedIn: Engage with Corporate Finance professionals on LinkedIn by commenting on posts, sharing relevant content, and joining finance groups. Informational Interviews: Reach out to people already working in Corporate Finance for informal chats to learn more about their experiences and gather advice on entering the field. Alumni Connections: Tap into your university's alumni network to find connections in Corporate Finance who can provide guidance and potentially recommend you for entry-level roles.

I would say-build skills which are usually needed most by Corporate FP&A such as financial modelling, advance Excel and PowerBI. These can be easily self-learned through online platforms like LinkedIn or Coursera. Networking is just as important—joining groups/networking platforms and leveraging LinkedIn by being an active contributor can help to make meaningful connections and keep you up to date with industry trends. For resume help, seek guidance from recruiters instead of using paid services, in my experience they don't help as much. Also, use your ideal job as a model to find missing skills and tailor your resume accordingly. Recruiters can also help with interview practice and providing feedback so I'd say again utilize that option.

Build essential skills for Corporate FP&A roles, like financial modeling, advanced Excel, and PowerBI. These can be easily learned online through platforms like LinkedIn Networking is just as crucial—be active on LinkedIn, join groups, and connect with people to stay updated on industry trends. When it comes to resumes, reach out to recruiters for feedback instead of paying for services—they often offer better insights. Tailor your resume by comparing it to your ideal job role and identifying skill gaps. Recruiters can also help you with interview practice and valuable tips.

Highlight Relevant Coursework: Emphasize any finance-related coursework, such as accounting, corporate finance, or economics, that showcases your academic foundation. Internship Experience: If you have interned in finance, highlight key responsibilities and accomplishments, such as analyzing financial statements or assisting in budgeting processes. Use Quantifiable Achievements: Showcase specific results, like improving financial analysis processes or contributing to cost-saving initiatives, to demonstrate your impact. Keywords and ATS Optimization: Customize your resume to include keywords relevant to Corporate Finance, such as "financial forecasting," "data analysis," and "risk management," to pass Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS).

1. Highlight Skills: Focus on key skills like financial analysis, Excel, and using systems like ERP. These are crucial in corporate finance and will help you stand out. 2. Certifications and Experience: Earning certifications like CFA Level 1 or CPA shows your commitment, and internships or finance-related projects demonstrate real-world experience. 3. Take Initiative: Whether you’re still in school or just starting out, managing a small investment portfolio or volunteering for financial tasks can show your enthusiasm and practical abilities. Taking the lead on self-driven projects speaks volumes about your passion for finance.

? Showcase Skills: Highlight relevant skills like financial analysis, Excel, and ERP systems. ? Certifications: Obtain entry-level certifications like CFA Level 1 or CPA. ? Relevant Experience: Include internships or projects related to finance. ? Strong Resume: Tailor your resume to emphasize key achievements and skills. ? Network: Connect with professionals in the field for insights and opportunities. ? Demonstrate Enthusiasm: Show a genuine interest in finance and a willingness to learn.