How to Become a Certified Financial Advisor
Becoming a certified financial advisor requires formal training, and some states require security measures such as background checks and fingerprinting. Check your state law for specifics. The demand for financial advisors is expected to increase, which makes it a wise career choice for those interested in finance.
- Obtain at a minimum a bachelor's degree pertaining to finance or business. Potential employees give preference to applicants with degrees in business or finance. If you are without a degree, search for colleges that offer a program you want to pursue. Choose elective courses that can assist you with financial advising career goals. Determine if you want to sell insurance. This makes you a more desirable candidate and takes a minimal amount of time to complete. If you decide this, as most financial advisors do, get more information from the insurance board in your state.
- Apply for licenses and schedule the appropriate tests. Study guides are available via the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority. Make inquiries through the Internet, phone or mail.
- Complete your resumé. Include education, relevant license information, professional memberships and academic achievements. If you worked in the finance field during your schooling, include it as well. Make your resumé and yourself stand out.
- Express interest and apply for positions. Look for job opportunities on the Internet, newspaper listings and career services department at the college or university you attended.
- Submit an application to the CFA Institute requesting to become a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) after two years of work experience as a Certified Financial Advisor.