Financial Planner / Advisor
Job Description
Financial advisors or Financial Planners asses the financial needs of individuals and help them with decisions on investments (such as stocks and bonds), tax laws, and insurance. Advisors help clients plan for short- and long-term goals, such as meeting education expenses and saving for retirement through investments.
Careers Ladder
Qualifications
Financial advisors typically need a bachelor’s degree. Although employers usually do not require personal financial advisors to have completed a specific course of study, a degree in finance, economics, accounting, business, mathematics, or law is good preparation for this occupation. Courses in investments, taxes, estate planning, and risk management are also helpful.
Gain certification with a recognised organisation such as the Financial Planning Association of Australia (FPA). While certification is not mandatory for financial advisors, it improves your career prospects and earning potential.
Attributes
- Analytical
- Autonomy
- Articulate
- Interpersonal
- Communicator
- Persuasive
- Self-Motivator
- Thorough
Key Skills
- Computer Skills
- Planning
- Sales Experience
- Superannuation
- Investments
- Compliance
- Financial Services
Future Prospects
Being a financial advisor can open up other possible career paths and options for advancement. For financial advisors who have developed expertise in a specific area of investing or client service, becoming a specialist at either a regional or national level within a firm is possible.
- Financial Planner
- Financial Analyst
- Business (financial) Owner
- Branch Manager