- Career development opportunities are the top employee retention driver
- Career-related reasons are the leading cause of turnover
- Lack of career development is the #1 reason for leaving an organization
Source: 2025 Work Institute Retention Report - Certificate programs, like Management or Accounting Foundations
- Skill-based training modules, like Excel for Financial Analysts or Data Analytics for Business
- Undergraduate programs, like a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration – Finance
- Advanced degree pathways, like a Master of Science in Finance or Accounting
- Specialization and Advanced Certification
According to the Corporate Finance Institute 2021 report, 67% of organizations face a financial skills gap – and 96% of finance professionals prefer employers that provide online training. (Corporate Finance Institute, 2021)
Specific certifications such as the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA), Certified Management Accountant (CMA), and Financial Planning & Analysis (FP&A) credential can be valuable for financial analysts and managers aiming for professional development.
- Leadership and Administrative Training
A Master of Business Administration (MBA) or a Graduate Certificate in Financial Management help you make strategic decisions, manage budgets, and lead teams effectively. - Technology and Data Analytics in Finance
Digital transformation is changing the way financial services companies operate. Upskilling and reskilling in financial technology, data visualization, and cloud accounting systems can help you stay relevant.
According to the World Economic Forum Future of Jobs Report 2025, “on average, workers can expect that two-fifths (39%) of their existing skill sets will be transformed or become outdated over the 2025–2030 period.”
- Soft Skills and Communication
Strong interpersonal abilities can help financial analysts explain complex data clearly and influence strategic decisions. Consider short, skill-based training such as a Micro-Credential in Business Communication and Leadership. Going back to school to learn a new skill not only demonstrates resilience and agility, but it can empower you to achieve your personal career goals. - Unlock development opportunities and career advancement potential
- Build leadership, analytical, and strategic thinking skills
- Stay competitive as automation and AI reshape finance roles
Ways to Grow Your Finance Skills Through Continuing Professional Development
In finance, change happens fast. New technology and regulations are always reshaping the field. Whether you’re a financial analyst, accountant, or team leader, continuous professional development (CPD) can help you stay ahead. According to Work Institute’s 2025 Retention Report, career-related issues are the primary cause of employee turnover.
Explore how earning advanced credentials through programs you access through Workforce Edge can help you pursue new career paths.
What are the best learning options through Workforce Edge for finance professionals?
What are four ways to develop finance skills that employers look for at any career level?
Why does continuing education matter to your finance career?
Continuing education can help you:
Technology changes can disrupt the relevance of worker skills. By investing in continuing education, you can better prepare for what’s ahead.
What other questions are people asking?
Q: What career advice can help financial analysts stand out in a competitive market?
A: Pursuing continuing professional development can help you develop skills that are in high demand and set you apart from other candidates.
Q: How can professional development help build stronger career paths in finance?
A: Ongoing development can help expand your expertise to areas like financial planning, data analytics, and risk management.
Q: What are the most important skills for a job in today’s financial services industry?
A: The most valuable skills for a job in finance may include analytical thinking, Excel automation, data visualization, and strategic decision-making.
Pursue career goals with confidence
If you decide to go back to school with job benefits to pursue self-paced online college, you can build the confidence you need for career mobility and a successful future. And Workforce Edge is here to support you on this journey. Find your employer and start exploring learning opportunities today.
*Please review your employer’s education benefit policy, as not all learning providers mentioned above may be eligible under your current policy.
In finance, change happens fast. New technology and regulations are always reshaping the field. Whether you’re a financial analyst, accountant, or team leader, continuous professional development (CPD) can help you stay ahead. According to Work Institute’s 2025 Retention Report, career-related issues are the primary cause of employee turnover.
