QUALIFICATIONS FOR FINANCIAL PLANNER ASPIRANTS

Financial planning is considered as one of the jobs with a satisfying pay and low level of stress. Even more appealing, this sector is forecast to rise by 27% in 2022, despite having started as a not so popular career. Unlike its previous system of only a handful, specific individuals in the field, it is now broader, and practitioners now enjoy not just the increase in demand for their services, but also the ability of assisting their clients in every step.

Educational background

Although it is a usual notion that graduates of business or finance related degree programs are mostly suitable for the job, those who are in different fields such as humanities can thrive in this environment as well. This is because the task, more than the expertise in concepts and facts, requires excellent communication and relationship building skills given that you main task is to be able to explain complex terms and theories in layman's term. Moreover, you have to establish trust between you and your customer, so all negotiations will go smoothly.

An MBA won’t hurt, though, especially if you have plans to upgrade in the corporate world. There are also doctorate programs in relation to the job, but this one is the most common.

Certificates

These are one of the crucial necessities you will need. It can either be a Certified Financial Planner or a Chartered Financial Analyst accreditation.

CFP tests need to be coupled with three years of work experience plus finance courses, and a bachelor’s degree. The exam takes two days, and lasts for 10 hours covering a variety of topics in the area. Meanwhile the CFA is tougher, as it has a pre-requisite of four-year experience and a series of examinations.

If you are looking for something that does require a degree, you can try the Chartered Financial Consultant certification, wherein you have to finish seven courses and two elective ones.

Your work does not necessarily need license, but you can apply for FINRA to be able to sell stocks and insurances.

Outlook

Because experience is obviously a priority here, some prefer to start out as junior assistants or part-time employees while they complete their studies. The median salary is at $63,969, but may vary according to location. Most professionals choose to be be self-employed rather than work in a firm since the income potential tend to be higher and a small office space is enough to get started. Many planners remain content in their roles and compensation, while those in the senior level are able to obtain a six-digit salary with equally high bonuses.