The world of finance has a bit of a reputation—and it isn’t exactly flattering. Its image is of bros making deals, discrimination, and bad behavior. But it also offers great career opportunities in an exciting, fast-paced industry.
If you want to get into the world of finance (or you’ve already dipped your toes in!) how can you help bring about positive changes? Changing the more toxic aspects of finance culture will help make it safer and more comfortable for everyone, but it’s not easy to challenge the status quo. Here are some ways to make a difference.
Work to Improve Diversity in Finance
One of the biggest problems in the finance industry is its lack of diversity. White men still hold the majority of the power and wealth, shutting out women and people of color. Working toward a more equitable finance culture is an important goal.
You can help by not only advocating for yourself within the industry but by advocating for others. If you have any clout at all within your organization, you can bring up the benefits of diversity in the workplace and spearhead initiatives to improve equality and make the culture more welcoming overall.
Diversity isn’t just the right thing to do. It’s a powerful win-win for all involved with any organization as it creates a more positive workplace, fosters innovation, and creates new opportunities for building revenue.
Raising the Accountability Bar
Large financial institutions are very happy to maintain the status quo. They don’t seem to worry much about accountability and appoint leaders with poor track records of business and social success. Powerful men with questionable (at best) backgrounds are often given even more responsibility and power, despite their shortcomings.
It’s time to raise the accountability bar. Lots of people are scared to speak up against the people in power, but we need more voices adding to those demands. Without collective power, the status quo will never change.
The Importance of Advanced Degrees for High-End Finance Careers
If you want to get ahead in the world of finance and gain enough power to help create real change, then you need to think ahead. An advanced finance degree isn’t just nice to have; it can be crucial for securing high-end careers in finance. Consider your goals and choose a degree that fits your ambition!
Stay Ahead of the Curve: Trends and New Technology in FinTech & Blockchain
The world of finance is always changing, especially when it comes to technology. Staying ahead of the curve and keeping up with trends and new technology in the industry will not only help you become a thought leader with authority but will also allow you to challenge the status quo.
Blockchain has become an important tool in the finance industry, but we have only scratched the surface of its potential. Other up-and-coming technologies are also changing the financial landscape in meaningful ways. Challenging the status quo by focusing on trends and tech` will advance your own career, help you stay future-proof, and change the industry in positive ways.
Climb the Ladder Ethically
As you rise up in the ranks, it’s important to remember your goals and values. Your personal goal is probably to achieve financial success while enjoying fulfilling work. But it’s also important to remember the goals beyond yourself.
It can be easy to forget that you wanted to challenge the status quo as you rise through the ranks. Never forget the importance of speaking up and working toward a better world. We all have a responsibility to use our power to change toxic policies and to challenge the status quo whenever necessary.
