Helpful Tools and Tips for Women in Finance

Though there has been an increased number of women in the financial services industry, one often finds that as you move up the chain of command the number of women begins to dwindle. 

In 2017, women occupied about 47% of the entry level roles, however, only 21% of the Senior Vice President roles were women and one step higher at the C-Suite level, women only represent 20%. In 2019 we saw a slight increase in these numbers. The entry level roles only increased by 1%, bringing the representation of women up to 48%. The level which had the most growth was Senior Vice President, raising 5%, bringing it up to 26% women.*

While women have already overcome many obstacles in order to achieve equity in the workplace, there is more work to be done. However, this is no easy task. Here are some tools to have in your belt to help you become a successful woman in finance:

Knowledge is power! Learning as much information as you can will be one of your greatest tools that can be utilized every day for the rest of your life. This allows you to be able to think for yourself and not depend on anyone to influence or make decisions for you. Additionally, it will help you feel more confident in every situation. So, we urge you to take every opportunity you can to ask questions and expand your knowledge.

At times it may be difficult to speak up and voice your opinion, especially if it isn’t a common opinion. However, finding your voice and not being afraid to use it is a great way to establish yourself. This can open up vast opportunities, as well as inspire others who may follow your lead, resulting in a great line of communication between yourself and your team.

Surrounding yourself with supportive women is a key asset to succeeding in finance. Having open communication and individuals to confide in can result in shared experiences and build your confidence in the field. Finding others who inspire and intellectually challenge you can help the development of your career and open doors to new opportunities.

Finding your confidence creates a foundation on which to grow your career. Regardless of your position, confidence, and believing in yourself, will help you to become a natural leader and move up the corporate ladder. Confidence will result in better communication, stronger relationships with colleagues, as well as nurturing outside-the-box thinking. Make the most out of every opportunity; remember that set backs are inevitable, but to learn from them, and become even stronger as a woman in finance.

While at first this may seem like a daunting mission, there are plenty of women to look up to and confide in; women who have been in your shoes and have accomplished similar objectives. Look around your office to find these individuals, as well as in your network. By keeping these four tools in your belt, you will be one step closer to achieving your professional goals and succeeding as a woman in finance.