Accounting and finance student and a picture of a large corporate building

Finding a job

Accounting, Finance and Economics

 

There are plenty of opportunities available in accounting, finance and economics. Here you'll find out where to search for roles and learn tips for your applications. 

 

Where to start your job search

We recommend starting your search using our online jobs board, MyCareer. You can find general, online jobs boards through our Graduate Jobs page

There are dedicated websites for accounting, finance and economics opportunities: 

 

Recruitment agencies

Recruitment consultants work with individuals to help them find suitable work to match their skills. Agency Central is the UK's leading recruitment agency directory. An advanced search and filter system finds the agencies which match your needs.

The University's Graduate Recruitment Consultants - Rich, Lorna and James - standing in front of the Careers Centre

Are you looking for a role in Hampshire? Our Graduate Recruitment Consultancy can help!

If you're in the final year of your degree, you can register for support from our Graduate Recruitment Consultancy. They work with over 3,000 employers in the local area to place our students into fantastic graduate careers.

Learn more about the Graduate Recruitment Consultancy

 

Speculative applications

Speculative applications involve sending a CV and cover letter to an employer to ask if they have any vacancies, even if the company is not currently advertising for a role. They're a great way to access "hidden jobs" that go unadvertised.

Submitting a speculative application shows your interest in a specific company and your willingness to go above and beyond to develop your skills and understanding of the industry. 

Learn how to send a speculative application

 

 

Start your own business

Freelancing is another popular career path for those in accounting, finance and economics. Many rely on their portfolio, self-promotion or networking to generate work. Our Student Startup team can offer further support with freelancing and starting your own business. 

Student Startup

 

Our top tips for securing a job in accounting, finance and economics

  • Keep your online job search flexible - some employers might use different titles to describe the same role.

  • Keep up to date with industry news and trends by following professional organisations on social media.

  • Attend career events to brush up on employability skills and network with employers.

  • Diversify your job search by using different key terms - some jobs may have different names, but are essentially the same. You could also include terms in your search such as ‘graduate’, ‘entry level’, or ‘junior’. 
  • Don’t limit yourself to ‘the big 4’, or even accounting and finance firms! Most sectors and companies will usually have a finance-related role as part of their service. 
  • You have lots of transferable skills from your degree, which can be applied to a variety of jobs. Your degree could also be useful for roles such as Marketing, Data Analyst, Teaching, and self-employment.
  • Use LinkedIn to connect with companies you’re interested in working for and build a network of professional contacts. Companies will often post about relevant news going on in the sector and share their job listings. You can find out more about using LinkedIn in our guide.

 

 


 

Get in touch

Visit our career centre:

Rosalind Franklin East, 28 Guildhall Walk, Portsmouth, PO1 2DD

 

Get in touch with us