Are you preparing for a career in business or finance? Then it is essential to know which
trends will lead to opportunities, and which skills help you stand out from the crowd. Young
Financials shares the best tips to help you stay ahead.
Skills over Degrees
Technological developments such as digitalization and automation are redefining what it
takes to succeed in today’s workplace. While your diploma remains a crucial foundation,
employers are placing more value on practical skills that go beyond your academic
qualifications. Key examples are problem-solving, adaptability, teamwork, and analytical
thinking.
Tip: Get a head start by gaining experience early on: Look for opportunities to practice your
skills in a professional environment, such as an internship, part-time job, or student
consultancy project.
Digital & Data-driven Transformation
There is no level in business where digital transformation hasn’t made its mark. Data and AI
increasingly influence decisions, strategies, and day-to-day operations. For applicants, this
means that digital fluency, the ability to interpret complex datasets, and AI literacy,
understanding the impact of AI, is a key differentiators in the hiring process.
Tip: Put knowledge into practice: Gain hands-on experience with data tools and systems,
understand how AI is applied in your industry, and stay up to date by following the latest
developments via podcasts or articles.
Enforcement of False Self-Employment
Since the beginning of this year, the Dutch Tax Authority has actively started enforcing rules
against false self-employment. Organizations hiring freelancers must comply with the rules
set out in the Dutch Wet Deregulering Beoordeling Arbeidsrelaties. Under this legislation,
freelancers are required to work independently, and sham employment structures will no
longer be allowed.
Tip: Make your independence clear: Set your own hours, use your own tools or equipment,
take on multiple clients, and maintain autonomy in how you work.
Labor Market Shortage
While job vacancies declined across most sectors in the first quarter of this year, the
financial sector moved in the opposite direction. Specifically, the number of open positions
in financial services rose by 2,000. It demonstrates the ongoing demand for qualified finance
professionals, despite the slowdown in the labor market overall. Still, the financial market
remains highly competitive. Those who differentiate themselves are more likely to land the
job they want.
Tip: Be proactive and make yourself visible: Start by actively connecting with finance
professionals, attending finance career events and company in-house days.
Employee Experience
In 2025, candidates are looking for more than just a role. They seek a workplace where they
genuinely feel supported and appreciated. As attention to work-life balance, mental health,
and job satisfaction continues to grow, a positive and people-focused work culture has
become a core aspect of what makes a job truly attractive.
Tip: Consider the broader context of the position: Pay attention to the workplace culture
and consider whether it supports employee well-being and fits your norms and values.
Would you like advice on what the best next step is for you within the financial job market?
Then sign up at Young Financials, and we will be happy to help you! Also, check out our
vacancies and Finance Traineeships!