That's because both corporate and personal finance jobs call for people with diverse skill sets, varied backgrounds, and open minds. So, if that sounds like you, find out how to break into this rewarding, growing segment of the modern economy. Here are three points to keep in mind before making the leap into the world of numbers, metrics, money, and all things financial.

You Should Enjoy Working with Numbers

In addition to being the type of person who pays attention to details, you should have a facility and at least a modest level of enjoyment when it comes to working with numbers. That doesn't mean you need to be a math genius or statistical expert, but if quantitative and math-related subjects are not your cup of tea, then this field is probably not for you. However, if you did well in high school and college math courses and have even a passing interest in banking, business, the stock market, economics, or similar subjects, then you'll easily find a home in the wide world of financial careers.

Degrees are Worth the Effort

One of the traditional aspects of the financial services sector is that college and graduate degrees are highly valued. There aren't a lot of freelancers for one very simple reason in that many state and federal laws regulate who can offer services as accountants, analysts, consumer counselors, and loan advisors. If you want to rise quickly in this area, it only makes sense to obtain a college degree. Even if you decide later on to go in alone as a sole proprietor, most of your prospective clients will want to know about your academic credentials.

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Getting a student loan to pay for your undergrad or graduate education is a wise investment. People who hold MBAs, master's degrees in business administration, CPAs, certified public accountancy licenses, and CFPs (certified financial planning certificates) all need to have college diplomas, at least, to get jobs in their line of expertise. But pay rates are high and opportunities are many, so it's no surprise that student loans are the primary way many of these skilled folks begin their educational journeys.

Government Work is Always Available

The organisation known as the IRS, or Internal Revenue Service, is a part of the US Treasury Department and are charged with seeing to it that working adults pay the right amount of taxes each year. Of course, the IRS gets its share of negative media attention every April, when the majority of citizens have to settle their tax bills. The good news, for working professionals anyway, is that the IRS regularly hires thousands of people with financial skills. The jobs offer very good pay, the chance to travel, excellent benefits, and one of the best retirement plans around. If you are averse to corporate or solo work, the IRS might be the place to ply your skills.