- Sample Questions From the CFP® Exam
The CFP® exam is designed to assess whether candidates for the Certified Financial Planner™ credential can apply their knowledge of financial planning in real-world scenarios. Covering topics such as retirement, taxes, insurance, investments and estate planning, the test evaluates both technical expertise and the ability to integrate multiple areas of planning. Rather than focusing on… read more…
- Course and Certification Options for Financial Planners
Professional certifications can give you a competitive edge as you grow your advisory business. There are a variety of credentials you might obtain, each of which has specific education and exam requirements. Deciding which financial planner course to take can depend largely on your career path and specialty. SmartAsset’s Advisor Marketing Platform can help you… read more…
- 7 Books That Can Help Prepare You to Take the CFP® Exam
Becoming a Certified Financial Planner™ requires passing the CFP® exam, which is a significant milestone in the certification process. While enrolling in a CFP® exam prep course can provide structured guidance, supplementing your studies with well-regarded financial planning books can deepen your understanding of key concepts and real-world applications. Reading widely can also help reinforce… read more…
- When Can You Take the Series 65 Exam?
The Series 65 exam or Uniform Investment Adviser Examination is required if you plan to register with state securities agencies as an investment advisor representation. Series 65 exam dates are offered by appointment; this is also how exams for other FINRA licenses work. If you’re planning to obtain a Series 65 license, you’ll need to… read more…
- What Is a Financial Solutions Advisor?
A financial solutions advisor helps clients, often affluent or high-net-worth investors, build their investment portfolios. These advisors work in a bank or wealth management setting as part of a larger financial services team, though some financial solutions advisors work independently. If you’re interested in this career path, knowing more about how this type of role… read more…
- What Are Breakaway Advisors?
A breakaway advisor is a financial professional who leaves a traditional wirehouse or broker-dealer for an independent advisory practice. Every year, advisors leave or “break away” from large brokerage firms whose businesses may be built around selling financial products and services for commissions. These advisors then join or establish their own registered investment advisor (RIA)… read more…
- What Is a Credit Risk Certification (CRC)?
The credit risk certification (CRC) is a professional credential that is offered by the Risk Management Association (RMA). Financial advisors obtain this certification to demonstrate their proficiency in assessing and managing credit risk. This certification may be of interest to you if you want to work more with businesses or business owners. SmartAsset’s Advisor Marketing… read more…
- How to Get an Entry Level Financial Planning Job
Financial planning can open the door to a wide range of jobs, including financial advisor, investment analyst, wealth manager, retirement planner and tax advisor, among others. If you’re just starting out, here a round up of entry level financial planning jobs. SmartAsset’s Advisor Marketing Platform can help you add new clients at your desired pace. Sign… read more…
- 7 Personal Finance Influencers to Follow If You’re an Advisor
Personal finance influencers are becoming increasingly popular on social media as people seek out straightforward, practical financial advice. While many influencers cater to a consumer-facing audience, some offer tips and strategies that are directed toward financial services professionals. Getting to know some of the most impactful personal finance influencers can be a terrific way to… read more…
- How to Find a Financial Planning Certificate Program
The distinction between financial advisors can sometimes hinge on the depth of their knowledge and the trust they inspire. Financial planning certifications are not merely a form of professional validation – they may be a testament to an advisor’s commitment, expertise and adherence to ethical standards. Professionals who pursue these certifications, especially the certified financial… read more…
- How Much You Could Make If You Earn a CRPC
Getting a chartered retirement planning counselor (CRPC) designation can increase a financial advisor’s earning potential without the need to invest a lot of time, energy and money. People with this financial professional certification report earning an average of 9% more after qualifying for the designation, according to the organization that provides training for CRPC applicants.… read more…
- CLU vs. ChFC for Financial Advisors
Financial professionals can earn a variety of certifications to demonstrate expertise and areas of specialization. Two well-known credentials are the chartered life underwriter (CLU) and the chartered financial consultant (ChFC). The CLU designation is geared toward life insurance specialists and focuses on insurance law, products, planning and business applications within the life insurance field. The… read more…
- Where to Find Financial Planner Courses Online
A Certified Financial Planner™ must meet continuing education (CE) requirements to maintain their certification. If you’re interested in completing financial planner courses online there are plenty of options to choose from. When comparing financial planning classes, it’s helpful to consider the format, the time commitment required, and what you’ll pay. SmartAsset’s Advisor Marketing Platform can… read more…
- How to Find a Remote Job as a CFP Financial Advisor
Earning the Certified Financial Planner™ (CFP®) designation can expand your career options, including opportunities for remote work. While some firms prefer advisors to work on-site, others offer flexible arrangements that allow CFP® professionals to work virtually, either part time or full time. If you’re considering remote CFP® roles, it’s helpful to understand where to find… read more…
- Choosing Financial Advisor vs. Financial Analyst for Your Career
When considering a career path in the financial sector, two common options often come to mind: becoming a financial advisor or a financial analyst. Both roles offer unique opportunities and challenges, appealing to individuals with different skill sets and career aspirations. While financial advisors primarily focus on providing personalized financial guidance to individuals and families,… read more…
- Example of How to Build a Strong Financial Advisor Resume
Whether you’re pursuing your first position as a financial advisor or preparing for your next move, a well-crafted resume is essential in a competitive job market. If you’re creating a resume from scratch or updating one you haven’t visited in years, it helps to understand what employers look for. Reviewing a financial advisor resume example… read more…
- What Is the CFP® Capstone Course?
Earning the Certified Financial Planner™ credential could broaden your career horizons and help you grow your book of business. There are several requirements financial professionals must meet, including completing the CFP® Capstone course. The course is designed to enhance your knowledge and skill set in preparation for working with clients and is required for all… read more…
- Pros and Cons of an Investment Manager Career
Investment management can be a demanding profession but one that may offer lucrative rewards. Financial managers earned a median annual salary of $139,790 in 2022, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Is investment management a good career path for beginners in the financial services industry? It could be for advisors who have the experience… read more…
- Popular Financial Influencers for Advisors to Follow
Financial influencers or ‘finfluencers’ have proven to be a popular, though unconventional, source of information and education for people who are interested in learning more about money. While many of the top influencers tailor their content to investors and everyday consumers who are navigating the realm of personal finance, some speak directly to the interests… read more…
- 7 Investment Books Every Advisor Should Read
Knowledge is a powerful asset and one that requires ongoing cultivation as an advisor. Devoting time to reading books about investing is one way to expand your expertise so that you can better serve your clients while becoming a savvier investor yourself. With so many books to choose from (and so little time in your… read more…
- 9 Entry-Level Jobs to Help You Break Into Wealth Management
A successful career in wealth management demands patience, perseverance and continuous learning. And, for those willing to put in the effort, the wealth management industry can offer rich rewards. Here are nine popular entry-level jobs that can help you get into and develop your experience in wealth management. Ready to grow your advisory business? SmartAdvisor… read more…
- 5 Financial Psychology Certifications for Financial Advisors
Financial psychology certifications can demonstrate expertise in the ways that psychology and personal finance intersect in a client’s attitudes, beliefs and behaviors that influence their financial decisions. These certifications can differentiate you in a competitive marketplace and potentially lead to increased income and credibility. Ready to grow your advisory business? SmartAdvisor can connect you with… read more…
- What It’s Like to Work as a Financial Planner
Entering a career in financial services can offer plenty of opportunities for advancement and high earning potential. Some professionals work as financial advisors while others choose to work as financial planners. While the titles sound the same, there are some differences in what a financial planner job entails. Add new clients and AUM at your… read more…
- Great Books for Professional Stock Traders
Stock trading is something of an art and just like painting or sculpture, it’s open to interpretation. That’s reflected in the sheer variety of investment theories and strategies advisors utilize to navigate the markets. If you’re interested in expanding your knowledge to serve your clients better, there are quite a few books for traders you… read more…
- Average Salary for Financial Paraplanners
Paraplanners are professionals who work with financial advisors and financial planners in a support capacity. A career in paraplanning can be a stepping-stone to becoming a financial advisor or planner, as it can be an opportunity to gain valuable work experience within the financial services industry. If you’re considering this type of role, you may… read more…