Would you prefer to work in healthcare, education, or finance?

In a global survey of 15,000 University students conducted by the CFA Institute, it was found that 24% of Australian graduates want to work in healthcare. Meanwhile, 20% want to work in medicine or health, and 17% want to work in finance.

The top three factors that respondents consider as important when choosing an ideal career include high pay (49%), flexible work hours (37%), and training opportunities (36%). Though the finance sector is known for lucrative reimbursements and lots of training opportunities, its notorious reputation for long work hours could be the culprit behind students’ lack of enthusiasm in entering the sector.

However, finance remains an attractive career option for students and is one of the top industries that graduates seek to enter. While many are enticed to the sector for its lucrative reimbursements, others are intrigued by the dynamic nature of working with fast-paced financial markets and the excitement of interacting with other highly driven colleagues.

Further, it is also true that work-life balance can be achieved in finance, with many individuals taking the time to go the gym during work or leave the office early to pick up their child, all with the full support of their employers. Some professionals even manage to run their own Youtube channel and be an influencer outside of work, while others start up their own firms to make finance more accessible for the next generation, such as our inspirational founder Camilla Love.

Since the COVID-19 pandemic, dramatic shifts in workplace dynamics have induced many companies, including those in the finance industry, to transform their traditional business models and shift to new paradigms. These trends are changing the way we work, and in the end, it’s the firms who adapt that thrive, the firms who look after the interests and wellbeing of its employees that attract and retain young talent.