what's different about working in finance?

[oracleslave]

I bet AussieL is a certified unix network technician.

Of that there is little doubt. Except a mule's one, all others are useful in some way.

[aussielong]

I bet AussieL is a certified unix network technician.

i am a proper C.U.N.T. to DBAs and SysAdmins

[realityhack]

I'm sure all this twaddle is interesting to the OP.

[aussielong]

I'm sure all this twaddle is interesting to the OP.

Good point.

There is a distinction between working in financial markets (investment banks) and finance per se. You could get into SunGard and work on coding up derivatives pricing models someone else has thought up, with no background in that, for relatively good pay compared to what you are getting.

If you want to get into IB's do the Securities Institute exams first and then at least you will be able to talk the talk in the interview (http://www.sii.org.uk) and you will look keen. Aim for Back Office roles first.

[Diestl]

Working in finance is different in that you'll probably be on the bench soon.

[lambrini_socialist]

thanks everyone, really interesting stuff. i'm having a lot of fun working for TV broadcasters, computer games companies and the like, so although switching industries could be lucrative, i don't think i'll be putting on shoes or whipping out the laminated wipe-clean picture of Mrs Thatcher any time soon.