Working as a financial adviser can be lucrative, interesting and rewarding. But how exactly can you break into this industry and land the roles you want? Here, we take a look at the path to getting a job as a financial adviser. So, if you’re keen to make the most of the opportunities available in this field, keep reading.
Get the necessary qualifications
First and foremost, you’ll need to get the relevant qualifications. As an adviser, you’ll be helping people to make potentially life-changing decisions regarding their wealth and property. It’s little wonder then that there are strict regulations in place governing who can work in these positions. Before getting the job of your dreams, you’ll need to undergo suitable training and achieve a qualification that is recognised by the Financial Conduct Authority. Options can include the Level 4 Diploma in Regulated Financial Planning and the Level 4 Investment Advice Diploma. Meanwhile, if you’re keen to specialise in mortgages, the Certificate in Mortgage Advice and Practice may be ideal. You can find out more about your options from organisations like the National Careers Service or by visiting the sites of specialist course providers such as http://www.simplyacademy.com.
When you’re applying for these courses, it helps to have GCSEs in maths and English and it’s also beneficial if you have some work experience in customer-facing roles.
Choose a suitable study option
Many people take these qualifications through employers as part of a structured training programme, but it’s also possible to sign up to them yourself. Bear in mind that, depending on the particular qualification you need and the provider you select, you may have the choice of attending classroom study sessions or completing the work online through distance learning.
Keep a lookout for opportunities
Because jobs in this field are highly sought after, you might have stiff competition for trainee roles. This means that if you’re to land the jobs you want, you’ll need to keep a lookout for any suitable opportunities that crop up. Make the most of networking websites and events, and ensure your CV is up to scratch. It could also pay off to hone your interview technique by practising Q&A sessions with your friends or family. These preparations will help ensure that, if a suitable role does become available, you’ll be in the best possible position to apply for it.
As long as you understand your options and are proactive in your approach, you should be able to kick start your career in financial advice.
