5. Texts for Class and Home Reading Choosing an Occupation

One of the most difficult problems for people is deciding what to do about a career. There are individuals, of course, who from the time they are six years old “know” that they want to be a doctor or pilots or fire fighters, but the majority of us do not get around to making a decision about an occupation or career.

Choosing an occupation takes time, and there are a lot of things you have to think about as you try to decide what you would like to do.

Fortunately, there are a lot of people you can turn to for advice and help in making your decision. At most schools and Universities, there are teachers who can counsel you and give detailed information about any job. And you can talk over your ideas with family members and friend who are always ready to listen and to offer suggestions.

What am I going to do after school or university? I began to think about my future profession at age of 15. My favourite subjects in school were Economics, History and English. My teachers were well-educated people with deep knowledge of the subjects. They encouraged me in my desire to become an economist. I opted for a career in business economics. It was my father who aroused my interest in that field.

Finance Manager: Job description

A finance manager is responsible for providing financial advice and support to clients to enable them to make sound business decisions. Specific work environments vary considerably and include both public and private sector organisations, such as multinational corporations, retailers, financial institutions, charities, small manufacturing companies and universities.

Financial considerations are at the root of all major business decisions. Clear budgetary planning is essential for short and long-term future planning, and companies need to know the financial implications of any decision before proceeding. In addition, care must be taken to ensure that financial practices are in line with legislation.

Finance managers may also be known as financial analysts or business analysts.

Typical work activities

The roles of finance managers vary significantly. The level and scope of the responsibilities can vary enormously. In larger companies for instance, the role is more concerned with strategic analysis; in smaller organisations, a finance manager may be responsible for the collection and preparation of accounts.

Typical activities include:

• providing and interpreting financial information;

• monitoring and interpreting cash flows and predicting future trends;

• analysing change and advising accordingly;

• formulating strategic and long-term business plans;

• researching and reporting on factors influencing business performance;

• analysing competitors and market trends;

• developing financial management mechanisms that minimise financial risk;

• conducting reviews and evaluations for cost-reduction opportunities;

• managing a company's financial accounting, monitoring and reporting systems;

• developing external relationships with appropriate contacts, e.g. auditors, solicitors, bankers etc.

• producing accurate financial reports to specific deadlines;

• managing budgets;

• arranging new sources of finance for a company's debt facilities;

• supervising staff.