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No Degree, No Problem

The New Way Into Finance

For years, it seemed like you needed a college degree to break into finance. But today, the focus is shifting. Many employers care more about what you can do—your skills, certifications, and qualities like accountability and dependability—than about your formal education. This shift is great news for young professionals, career changers, and those starting without a degree. With the right approach and mindset, you can build a successful and fulfilling career in finance without a traditional college path.


Finance Jobs That Don’t Require a Degree

Contrary to popular belief, numerous job opportunities in financial services only require a high school diploma. These roles provide excellent entry points into the finance industry, allowing you to gain experience, develop key skills, and move up the career ladder. Check out these finance roles that you can jump into without needing a degree:

  • Bank Tellers
  • Secretaries and Administrative Assistants
  • Participant Service Representatives
  • Retail Salespersons
  • Bookkeeping, Accounting, and Auditing Clerks
  • Real Estate Sales Agents
  • Laborers and Freight, Stock, and Material Movers
  • Title Examiners, Abstractors, and Searchers
  • First-Line Supervisors of Retail Sales Workers
  • Production, Planning, and Expediting Clerks
  • Insurance Claims and Policy Processing Clerks
  • Administrative Services Managers
  • Data Entry Keyers


High-Impact Roles in Finance

Now, let's explore some of these roles that are perfect for getting started in finance. With just a high school diploma, you can gain valuable experience that opens doors to even bigger opportunities.


1. Bank Tellers

Bank tellers are often the first point of contact for participants at a bank. They handle routine financial transactions, such as deposits, withdrawals, and check cashing, while also providing information about bank products and services.


Key Skills:

  • Communication: Clear and effective communication is essential when interacting with participants and resolving inquiries.
  • Detail-Oriented: Accuracy in handling cash and processing transactions is critical.
  • Service-Oriented: Providing excellent participant service to enhance client satisfaction and trust.

Why It Matters: Starting as a bank teller can provide a strong foundation in participant service, financial products, and the basics of banking, offering a gateway to more advanced positions in finance.


2. Bookkeeping, Accounting, and Auditing Clerks

These clerks are responsible for maintaining accurate financial records, reconciling accounts, and ensuring compliance with financial regulations. They work across various industries, including financial services, helping organizations manage their finances.


Key Skills:

  • Critical Thinking: Necessary for interpreting financial data and identifying discrepancies.
  • Time Management: Effectively managing time to meet deadlines for financial reporting.
  • Problem-Solving: Ability to address and resolve discrepancies in records or accounts.


Why It Matters: This role allows individuals to develop a solid understanding of financial operations and can serve as a stepping stone to higher-level accounting or financial analysis positions.


3. Participant Service Representatives

Participant service representatives in finance work with clients to resolve complaints, answer questions, and provide information about financial products and services. They are integral in maintaining client relationships and ensuring participant satisfaction.


Key Skills:

  • Perceptiveness: Understanding clients’ emotions and needs to provide better service.
  • Judgment and Decision-Making: Making quick, effective decisions that align with company policies and client expectations.
  • Active Learning: Staying updated on company policies, procedures, and financial products to assist clients effectively.


Why It Matters: A career as a participant service representative can build strong interpersonal skills and offer insights into various financial products and participant needs, laying the groundwork for future roles in client management or sales.


Top Skills That Make You Stand Out in Finance

Whatever role you're aiming for, some skills are always in high demand in the finance world. Developing these abilities can help you shine and succeed in your career:

  • Communication
  • Critical Thinking
  • Detail-Oriented
  • Judgment and Decision-Making
  • Time Management
  • Active Learning
  • Prioritization
  • Service-Oriented
  • Perceptiveness
  • Problem-Solving


Take the First Step with Build Better Careers

If you're ready to start or pivot your career in finance, Build Better Careers is here to help. Unlock resources, guidance, and tools to help you build the skills you need and connect with employers looking for motivated professionals just like you.


Sign up for an account with Build Better Careers today and start your journey toward a successful career in finance.


If you're ready to learn, adapt, and push forward, the finance industry has countless doors waiting to be opened. A degree isn’t the only way in—develop the right skills, explore new ways to learn, and create a rewarding career that’s all your own. Your success story is waiting to be written!