If you’ve landed on this site, chances are you’re either about to step into the world of finance—or you’ve already taken that first step and would like to build upon your current skillset in order to feel less “behind” in the workplace. Whether you’re a student, a recent graduate, or simply someone trying to break into the finance industry, I want to start this blog by telling you something that I wish someone had told me earlier: 

You are not alone. 

No matter who I was talking to about how tough I’m finding the job search, I was always told: 

“There are so many others just like you in this same situation” 

I can guarantee you it didn’t feel like it, the whole application process felt very alien to me in the fact that you never genuinely spoke to someone, whether it was getting to a first round interview, only for it to be pre-recorded, or simply getting the same old rejection email: 

“After careful consideration, we regret to inform you that we will not be progressing with your application at this time as we believe other applicants are more well-suited” 

This blog, Finance Footsteps, is something I’ve come up with, basically to try and create a community of like-minded individuals all in a similar situation, as well as, providing readers (and myself) with valuable information such as weekly financial news summed up, some of the best resources to help build your skill set and application tips or tricks I’ve learned over the last year and a half of applying. 

I graduated in the summer of 2024 with a degree in Economics with Business. On paper, I did all the “right” things: got the degree, worked hard, sent applications, tried to network, followed the advice from lecturers, career services, and LinkedIn influencers. 

The Struggle to Land That First Job 

After that, I was still slightly unsure of what I wanted to do in terms of my career. I knew I wanted to work somewhere within finance, but due to no experience, I really didn’t have the knowledge of what each role entailed or whether I’d enjoy it or not. This is where I began sending out applications with a basic CV highlighting my degree, as this was the best experience I had. 

I thought I was ready. But the rejection emails came quickly—and they kept coming. Worse, most didn’t even come at all. Just silence. Ghosted by entire application systems. I’d refresh my inbox constantly with that dull hope, only to see more rejections or even nothing. 

I’d spend hours tweaking CVs and cover letters, only to be told “you don’t have enough experience.” But how can you get experience if no one will give you a chance? I found myself trapped in what I can only describe as an infinite feedback loop of frustration: 

No experience → No job → No experience → Repeat. 

It chipped away at my confidence. There were days when I genuinely thought it was impossible. Days when I compared myself to others, either from my uni or on LinkedIn, landing analyst roles, internships, even grad schemes at places like EY, Natwest, and HSBC. Meanwhile, I was here, sitting in my room, refreshing LinkedIn job boards, not knowing if I’ll ever land that first job. 

And that’s when the idea for Finance Footsteps was born. 

Why I Created This Blog 

I realised that if I was struggling, others must be too. I’ve seen posts on LinkedIn of people complaining about this exact “no experience, no job” topic. 

So I wanted to build something for people like us: 

• People who are motivated but overwhelmed 
• People who are smart and hardworking but just need that one chance 
• People who feel like they’re not getting anything in return, desperate for someone to reply 

Finance Footsteps is as much a tool for my own growth as it is a resource for others. It’s where I’ll document what I learn, how I grow, and what’s actually helping me. If it can help you too—whether by informing, encouraging, or simply reminding you that you’re not alone—then this project will already be a success. 

What You’ll Find Here 

To make this site as useful as possible, I’m dividing content into a few key areas: 

1. Weekly Financial News Roundups 

Every week, I’ll publish a concise but informative summary of the most important financial news. The aim? To help you stay in the loop so you sound sharp in interviews, on applications, or just while talking to people in the industry. 

Because saying, “I read something interesting in the Financial Times this week…” might just be the edge you need. 

I’ll break stories down in plain English. Think of it like The Economist meets a study partner. 

2. Career Guidance for Graduates 

From crafting a standout CV to preparing for finance interviews to building a LinkedIn presence that gets noticed — this blog will feature step-by-step guides and personal reflections. 

There’s so much bad advice out there. I’ll only share what I’ve tested, what worked (or didn’t), and what I’m still learning.  

3. Curated Resources and Tools 

I’ll compile the most useful finance courses, YouTube channels, podcasts, and books that have actually helped me (and aren’t just affiliate fluff). Some will include affiliate links — but I’ll always tell you if they do, and only if I genuinely think the content is valuable. 

You’ll also find: 

• Grad job boards that actually work 
• Templates for cover letters and CVs 
• Skill development tools (Excel, financial modelling, interview prep) 
• Productivity hacks and study techniques 

4. Build a Community 

At some point, I would like to create some form of chat room where members can talk about anything related to what this blog offers to teach, as well as insight from people who are on that next step of their career and what they have found works. 

 This is a place to be real. Not performative. Not polished. 

Because I know firsthand what it’s like to hit a low point, to feel like you’re wasting time, and to start believing maybe you weren’t cut out for this path. If I can push through, you can too — and hopefully, this blog shaves some time off the process. 

Who This Blog Is For 

• Students studying finance, economics, accounting, or business 
• Recent grads feeling stuck in the job search 
• Career switchers considering finance as a new direction 
• Anyone feeling like they’re “behind” or just want to keep in the loop 

I don’t have all the answers. I’m still figuring it out myself. But if you’re someone who’s willing to keep showing up — to learn, to apply, to try again — then you’re already on the right path. 

You Just Need That One Chance 

Success in finance seems so far off at the moment, but that one chance will come, you just have to stick with it. Even if this blog only helps you feel 5% less lost or gives you one tool that lands your first interview, then it’s done its job. If you’ve ever felt that quiet despair — that you’re never going to “break in” because the odds are stacked — please let this site be your reminder: 

You’re not alone. Your opportunity will come; it’s just a lengthy process.  

Welcome to Finance Footsteps. 

• – Josh