How to use the CFA to break into finance services, industry, different, currently, like

cyber21

It seems like a large number of people are taking the CFA in the hopes of getting into the financial services industry but are currently employed in different fields (consulting, IT, etc.).

Will taking the CFA exam really allow someone to break into finance? Let's hear some stories of people who have successfully transitioned into finance and who attribute their success partly or mostly to their participation in the CFA program.

luda002

Best way? Use cfa candidacy to network with CFAs, network your arse off and repeat.

Respect the curric. but being knowledgable is not how you get a job.

ap0258

Not impossible but also not easy. For those employed in other fields, the CFA is only part of the package that makes you a viable IBD candidate. Other parts of the 'package' include top tier schooling, good grades, relevant internships, etc. In addition, luck/timing is also critical as the most likely hiring opportunity will be lateralling, off cycle and need-based.

As for real examples, I made the transition into BB Ibanking after several years in consulting.

Also, let me break it to you that IBD may not be a good fit for everyone. So think hard before investing so much for the sake of pursuing it.

comp_sci_kid

Get a piggy bank, write "FINANCE" on the side, whack it with the CFA book

Congrats. you just broke into finance.

bigredhockey55

Have you tried using the search function? You might find a few results where people talk about this stuff....just a thought