5 Ways to Get More Women into Banking
Banking and finance are often perceived as male-dominated industries, but this narrative is changing as more women enter the field and discover both its challenges and vast opportunities. As someone who has navigated the world of finance, I’ve seen how this sector can empower women professionally and personally. Here are five compelling reasons why women should consider a career in banking and how it can provide a platform for success.
1) Financial Independence
A career in finance offers women a route to financial independence. The potential for high earnings enables women to build personal wealth, invest in their futures, and make decisions on their own terms. Financial autonomy creates the freedom to pursue goals such as purchasing a home, furthering education, or supporting family members, all without reliance on others.
Achieving financial independence empowers women to navigate life with confidence, avoid being stuck in difficult situations, and forge their own career paths. In a sector where merit and hard work are rewarded, banking provides women with the tools to control their financial futures and build security.
2) Strong Female Role Models
Contrary to the traditional image of the finance industry, there is now a growing network of strong female role models who are ready to mentor and guide the next generation. Throughout my own career, I have been supported by senior female colleagues who believed in my potential and opened doors to new opportunities.
These women not only offer invaluable career advice but also create a supportive environment that encourages growth and success for other women. Their mentorship and advocacy are key to bridging the gender gap in banking, making it easier for more women to enter and excel in the industry. This culture of support is vital in encouraging women to pursue and thrive in finance roles.
3) Opportunities for Travel
A career in finance doesn’t just involve desk work—there are numerous opportunities for travel, whether it’s attending roadshows, meeting international clients, or expanding your professional network across borders. Early in my career, I had the opportunity to travel frequently, exploring new cities and gaining exposure to global financial markets.
These travel opportunities not only offer professional development but also contribute to personal growth, exposing women to diverse cultures and global perspectives. This international exposure broadens horizons and enhances both career and personal experiences. For women with a passion for adventure and an interest in global markets, banking can provide unmatched opportunities for travel and personal enrichment.
4) Continuous Learning and Growth
Finance offers an education like no other. Being on the frontline of the global economy means constant learning—whether it’s tracking market trends, understanding the impact of global events, or staying ahead of financial developments. In banking, you’re required to stay informed, adaptable, and continuously engaged with the world around you.
When I worked on the global trading floo, I saw firsthand how world events affected markets in real-time and how interconnected the global economy truly is. This hands-on education equips women with skills and knowledge that are valuable not just in finance, but across many other sectors. For women who enjoy intellectual challenges and a fast-paced, dynamic career, banking is a field that offers constant growth and stimulation.
5) Family-Friendly Benefits
The finance industry has made significant strides in supporting work-life balance, particularly for women. Many firms now offer excellent benefits, such as childcare subsidies, flexible working hours, and in-office nurseries. Some companies even provide fertility treatments and family planning services, recognising that work-life balance is crucial for retaining female talent.
At Deutsche Bank, where I worked, colleagues balancing demanding careers and family life were supported through comprehensive family benefits, including private healthcare and support systems for working parents. These benefits make a significant difference in ensuring women can thrive both professionally and personally, making banking a more accessible and rewarding career choice.
Banking is no longer an industry where women are underrepresented or unsupported. By embracing the opportunities in finance—including financial independence, access to strong mentors, international travel, continuous learning, and family-friendly benefits—women can excel and pave the way for others. The finance industry is evolving, and more women than ever before are seizing the chance to build successful careers within it, driving the future of the sector forward.
By Jordan Cracknell
- Jordan Cracknell