Financial Analysts provide interpretations about auditing processes, business performance, budgets, investments and financial dealings. They recommend cost saving strategies and measures on reducing the business expenditure on non-relevant items. Analysts play a key role in an organization as they help to maintain the company’s success and guide executives in making wise business and financial decisions.
A Financial Analyst usually performs any of the following tasks:
• Cost reduction
• Accounting
• Reconciliations
• Advising clients
• Assisting auditors
• Networking with industry professionals
• Reviewing budgets
• Checking the integrity of data
• Forecasting
• Helping the business in its investments
• Analysing real estate investment opportunities, stocks, bonds and other financial products

• Computer technology
• Using financial software
• Applying technical knowledge
• Using commercial skills
• Networking
• Negotiating
• Problem solving
• Flexibility
• Organization
• Meeting deadlines
• Focus and persistence
• Understanding complex information
• Following business protocols

Financial analysts should obtain Finance or Accounting certifications. Employers recognize these certifications and they help them to trust in an analyst’s abilities. Some of these certifications may include ACA, CIMA, or an ACCA. Having an MBA or a Finance Master's Degree is always an asset.