What are the qualities that characterizes an outstanding financial analyst? I came across the careers section in the website of a bulge bracket investment bank. It features the profiles of hundreds of its people, across regions, business units all the way from entry positions to the top.
I did a quick study of what these financial analysts said about their work and what they love about it. I have compiled the commonly recurring ideas into the list below:
1. Passion for people
2. Passion for numbers
3. Passion for learning
4. Ability to ask for help
5. Open-minded
6. Not afraid of making mistakes
7. Possibility thinking: the attitude that nothing is impossible
8. Independent worker
9. Team player
10. Leader: an action leader, a thought leader and a decisive leader
11. Take pride in his/her work
12. Take pride in being part of the team
13. Desire to contribute, add value and make a difference
14. Looking out for the best interest of clients
15. Outstanding people skills
16. Excellent communication skills
17. Have clear long-term professional goals
18. Results oriented
19. Value his/her time
20. Always looking for new ideas, challenges and responsibilities
21. Confident
22. Dedicated
23. Dynamic
24. Authentic
25. Reliable; consistent quality work
26. Strive for excellence
27. Takes initiatives
28. Have an adventurous mindset
29. Ability to adapt to constant changes
30. Work hard and play hard
Don’t be daunted by this long list. As I see it, these qualities either are learnable or will come naturally with passion for your work as a financial analyst. The big question then becomes, “Are you passionate about being a financial analyst?”
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