Microfinance is a sector of the finance market that provides services to low income clients. The businesses work with self-employed individuals and those without access to traditional banks and services. Microfinance businesses provide insurance, savings, credit and fund transfer services to individuals all over the world. Job seekers can find positions in the industry in finance, communication and marketing.
1 Pursue a degree in Finance, Business, Accounting, Economics or Marketing. A career in microfinance requires knowledge in business, finance and communication to work in the field. While a bachelor's degree can be the minimum education for a career in the field, graduate degrees enhance employment opportunities in finance related fields.
- Communication and language skills can also advance a career in microfinance. Microfinance institutions provide services to clients in some of the poorest parts of the world. Language skills can help to communicate the services the business offers to these communities.
- Microfinance careers can also involve creating educational and training materials for clients. The degree program should provide training in providing advice to clients in financial services. Include courses in written and oral communication to enhance job skills for the field.
2 Obtain an internship. An internship in a microfinance organization can provide students with an opportunity to explore the career options available in the field. An internship in microfinance allows students to apply education in real life situations. In addition, internships allow students to determine if a career in microfinance is the right choice for them.
- Internships also provide the student with experience in the field, which can help build a resume for finding a position in a microfinance institution.
- Working in a microfinance organization can provide the student with contacts in the field, which can help secure a position after graduation. Students may receive job offers for a position after graduation as well.
3 Pursue specific microfinance training. Microfinance groups and organizations provide training courses and certificate programs for the various aspects of microfinance.
- Membership in an organization can provide seminars and training workshops in areas of microfinance.
- Networking with other professionals in the field can provide information on available positions in microfinance institutions.
4 Search for a position in a microfinance institution. Microfinance organizations with websites may provide job information on available positions in the field.
- Look for positions in classified advertisements and job search websites for professional careers in the microfinance field.
- Use a job search agency that specializes in finance professionals to find positions in the finance industry.