Breaking into the payments and fintech industry isn’t just about ticking the right boxes on your CV - it’s about connecting with the right people, showing up in the right places, and knowing how to tell your story. I’ve worked with hundreds of candidates over the years, many of whom weren’t the “obvious choice” on paper - but they landed their dream roles because they knew how to build relationships, learn from others, and stay visible in the right networks. That’s the real secret. If you’re serious about launching or accelerating your career in this space, networking isn’t optional. It’s your bridge into a world that moves fast, values innovation, and is always hungry for curious minds and bold thinkers. Here’s how to build and use that bridge.
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Yes, you need to be on LinkedIn. But it’s not about how many connections you have - it’s about how you engage with them.
Start by following fintech thought leaders, key figures in the payments space, and hiring managers from companies that excite you. Comment on their posts, ask thoughtful questions, and share your own perspectives. Over time, these small moments of visibility can lead to meaningful connections.
Pro tip: When you send a connection request, add a short message explaining why you’re reaching out. A little context goes a long way.
Whether it’s Money20/20, Sibos, Fintech Week London, or a niche meetup about embedded finance - get yourself in the room.
Can’t attend in person? No problem. Join virtual panels, listen to webinars, and engage with speakers afterward via social media or email. Introduce yourself, reference something they said, and ask a smart follow-up question. It’s not pushy - it’s professional curiosity.
Not sure where to start? Ask us at PaymentGenes. We can recommend events, newsletters, or industry groups based on your interests.
A good recruiter doesn’t just send your CV to a client - they help position you, prep you, and represent you with the context you might not get a chance to explain yourself.
The best relationships I’ve built with candidates started before they were job hunting. They reached out, we had an honest chat, and we stayed in touch. So when the right opportunity came up - we were ready.
Don’t wait until you’re desperate for a move. Reach out early, ask for insight into the market, and keep recruiters updated as your goals evolve.
The payments and fintech industry is full of debates - about regulation, blockchain, financial inclusion, AI in fraud prevention, and much more. You don’t have to be an expert, but sharing your thoughts on emerging trends shows you’re engaged and forward-thinking.
Write a LinkedIn post. Share a relevant article and add your own take. Start a newsletter. Join a X thread. The point is: don’t just consume content - contribute to it.
That’s how you get noticed.
Networking isn’t about asking strangers for jobs. It’s about exchanging ideas, building mutual trust, and being remembered for the right reasons.
If you’re reaching out to someone in the industry, think about what you can offer - not just what you want. Maybe you read a great article that’s relevant to their work. Maybe you have insight into a market they’re exploring. Start with value, and the relationship builds naturally from there.
Not every conversation will lead to an opportunity - and that’s okay. Networking is a long game. Keep showing up, keep learning, and keep your network warm.
You never know when someone you met six months ago might remember you for a role that’s just opened up.
In a sector built on innovation, relationships still matter most. The right conversation, at the right time, can open the door to a company, a mentor, or a career path you hadn’t even considered.
If you’re exploring your next step in payments or fintech and want some honest advice on how to approach the market - we’d be happy to chat. Let’s connect.
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When it comes to building high-performing fintech teams, one question keeps coming up: Should we hire globally or locally? It’s a conversation we’ve had with dozens of clients over the past year - and there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. In a sector where talent is scarce, skills are specialised, and collaboration is key, where someone works is just as important as what they do. Here’s how we help our clients think through the remote work dilemma - and what we believe fintech leaders should consider when making these strategic hiring decisions.
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