How to Become a Financial Advisor – Step by Step Instructions and Tips

How to Become a Financial Advisor

If you want to find out how to become a financial advisor, there are many ways that this can be achieved. There are also many fields that you can specialize in once you have finished your schooling. A few of these fields include estate planning and tax policy. Here are some of the things you will need to get started in the financial-advisor field.

financial advisors near me

You will need at least a bachelor’s degree in finance or accountancy to start off in this career. The best programs are ones that offer a four year undergraduate program along with a four year graduate program. Other degrees you can get in the same field include the master of science in finance or the MS in finance. Once you get your bachelor’s degree you will need to take several exams, including the GMAT. Once you get your first job as a financial advisor, it is important to keep updating your education by taking refresher exams every couple of years.

The number one key to becoming a financial advisor is being able to network effectively. Networking is the backbone of any successful career, and financial advisors should not be excluded from this aspect. One way of networking effectively is by attending conferences where financial professionals come together to network and share information. Another way is to volunteer your time at local non-profit organizations where clients might be seeking financial advice. Both ways will help you meet people who might be looking for your career. These people might give you referrals which could lead to jobs, and more importantly, it can give you contacts that can help you network even more effectively.

How to Become a Financial Advisor – Step by Step Instructions and Tips

The next key step in how to become a financial advisor is taking the right tests. The American Financial Association or A.F.A certification exams will help you get the needed certifications to become a C.P. certified financial planner. Taking these exams will not only help you get a job in this field, but it can also open up other career opportunities for you in your area of study.

The final step in how to become a financial advisor is to take the appropriate C.P. exam. The exam is offered by the National Association of Certified Financial Planner or C.P. board, and can be found online.

Financial advisors will find that there are several different certifications that they can achieve before working their way up to the C.P. board. Many also have state licensing or additional certifications. It is very important to remember that you do not need any formal work experience to get into the field as a financial advisor. There are also a variety of state-level certifications which can be achieved by working your way up the ladder of states with financial planning licensing or the other relevant certifications.