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How to Become A Financial Advisor

If you are good at math and would like to help people, you should consider pursuing a career as a financial advisor. These professionals advise their clients on how to invest their money or purchase insurance, so that they are able to meet their financial goals. By developing budgets, retirement plans, and other investment strategies, you could help improve the financial outlook for your clients.



accounting While there is no specific bachelor’s degree required, it is highly advisable for an individual to at least earn a bachelor’s degree. Students should take economic, accounting, and finance courses. Many financial advisors earn bachelor’s degrees in finance, accounting, economics, or mathematics. Some employers are willing to consider candidates that have not taken those courses, as long as they are willing to learn and are able to meet deadlines.

Most employers also require their financial advisors to have professional certifications or licenses. These licenses are the certified financial planner (CFP), chartered financial analyst (CFA), and the registered investment advisor (RIA). Professionals who earn these credentials could choose to run their own business or work for a large investment firm. The requirements for these certifications generally include having a bachelor’s degree and the successful completion of certification exams for each certificate. There are also certificate programs available for individuals that do not have a degree, but want to learn more about financial advising.

Since competition for financial planners is stiff, potential financial advisors could get their foot in the door by seeking out internships and working their way up. Internships are great for individuals who are just starting out in the field and want to learn more about this career path. Many banks, accounting firms, and financial institutions also offer entry-level positions. Some employers offer training programs for potential candidates, while other employers offer positions for candidates that have several years of experience.

Financial planners and advisors must have a thorough understanding of various financial concepts in order to help their clients with their budgeting and investment needs. This profession may be a good choice for individuals who enjoy working with people and the challenge of working in the stock market.

Median pay according to Bureau of Labor Stastictics (BLS) for a financial advisor is $67,520 for year 2012.

How to become a Financial Advisor in Texas?

To start a career as a financial advisor in Texas, you will need at least a 4-year Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, business administration or a related field. You can also improve your qualifications by going for a Master’s degree. In addition, you will need effective communication and networking skills. You can start by getting an entry-level position at a financial services firm and move up the ranks to become a financial advisor.

How to become a Financial Advisor in California?

In order to build a career as a financial advisor in California, you need to have a 4-year Bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, business administration or a related field. This will help you get an entry level job related to financial services. Higher positions may require you to have a Master’s degree. You will also need good communication, networking and interpersonal skills.

How Long Does It Take to Become a Financial Advisor?

It usually takes four years of undergraduate education to kick start one’s career as a Financial Advisor. Today, many schools are also offering certificate programs, along with ‘financial planning’ majors. For instance, the San Diego State University is offering a Bachelor of Science in Financial Services with a Certificate in Personal Financial Planning. Once students have completed their undergraduate/post graduate education, they can start working as a financial advisor right away.

What Are the Requirements to Become a Financial Advisor?

For students entering college with an aim to become a Personal Financial Advisor, a business management degree with a concentration in Finance is recommended. Students can enroll in a Bachelors of Science (B.Sc.) degree in Finance/Accounting/Business with a concentration in Financial Planning or a Master of Science (M.Sc.) degree in a similar discipline. Many employers also prefer financial advisors to have licenses or certificates. Hence, an Executive Financial Planning Certification can improve an individual’s chances of career growth.

How Much Can I Make after Becoming a Financial Advisor?

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the annual median pay of Personal Financial Advisors was $88,890 in 2018. The number of jobs in this field in 2016 was 271,900. Moreover, employment of Personal Financial Advisors is predicted to grow at 15% from 2016-2026, which is much faster than the average for all other professions. Thus, this line of work offers rewarding opportunities to individuals.

Frequently Asked Question(s)

Q:After becoming a financial advisor, can you tell me what exactly will I be doing?

A:As a financial advisor, you will be responsible for giving advice and recommendations regarding an organization's financial health. The job duties include: researching market trends, analyzing competitors, contracting clients, assisting clients with finance, promoting and selling products, producing financial reports, analyzing financial statements, and more. Browse through our page for more information.

Q:How do i become a financial advisor with just a high school diploma?

A:Unfortunately, you cannot become a financial advisor with just a high school diploma. You must have at least a bachelor degree in finance. As a financial advisor, you must be able to demonstrate strong analytical skills and numeracy skills. A college degree in finance will equip you with a thorough understanding of finance and investments.

Q:What degree do you need to become a financial advisor?

A:To become a financial advisor, you must have at least a bachelor degree in finance and accounting. Most companies prefer hiring candidates who have earned a masters degree in the field. A professional certification or license can help you boost your career as a financial advisor. The Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) issues licenses to professionals in this field. You may have to pass written and oral examinations to successfully earn a license. (Source: The Financial Industry Regulatory Authority FINRA)

Q:What do financial advisor do?

A:Financial advisors provide people with up-to-date information and knowledge regarding their finances. A financial advisor's job includes advising their clients on their financial matters, keeping in mind the laws and regulations that govern taxes, interest rates, pension plans and real estate etc. They also keep a detailed record of their clients assets and investments. (Source: PayScale)

Q:Why become a financial advisor?

A:According to PayScale, finance advisors made a median annual income of $50,128 in 2014. The growth rate for these professionals is steady. Not necessarily are financial advisors are restricted to working in the finance industry. These professionals can seek work in other sectors and can excel in the field with the help of certifications. (Source: PayScale)

Q:How long does it take to become a financial advisor?

A:It can take you 4 to 6 years after you complete your high school to become a financial advisor. You must at least complete a four year bachelor's degree in a relevant subject such as finance, business, economics, mathematics, accounting or corporate law. Many students continue to study and pursue a master's program in one of these subjects. The exact duration will depend upon the academic route you choose.

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