Financial Planner

What is a financial planner?

A financial planner is a professional who helps individuals and businesses manage their finances effectively.

What does a financial planner do?

A financial planner usually:

• Provides advice to clients on various aspects of finance like savings, investments, retirement planning and tax planning
• Analyses financial information to create plans best suited to individual clients
• Monitors the finance market to stay updated on the financial trends and regulations
• Interact with clients regularly, providing them with financial advice and updates about their financial status

What does the day-to-day life of a financial planner look like?

A financial planner usually works standard business hours from 9am to 5pm. They will often meet with clients, discuss their needs and financial goals, review financial information and devise a suitable financial plan. They also spend a good amount of their time staying informed about the financial market and regulations.

Where does a financial planner work?

Financial planners work in a variety of settings. They may work in financial institutions, banks, insurance companies or investment firms. Some financial planners also work independently and have their own clients. This role can sometimes also involve travelling to meet with clients in their homes or businesses.

What tools/software/hardware does a financial planner use?

As a financial planner, you will use:

• Financial planning software: to create comprehensive financial plans and strategies for clients. Some popular software programs are MoneyGuidePro, eMoney, and NaviPlan.
• Spreadsheet software: programs like Microsoft Excel for organising, analysing, and presenting financial data.
• Customer relationship management (CRM) software: for managing client information and interactions.

What do I need to become a financial planner?

To become a financial planner, you can consider the following options:

• Bachelor's degree: in finance, economics, accounting or a related field
• Certification: as a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) - adds credibility and can increase job prospects.

What career paths are available?

As a financial planner, your career can progress in the following ways:

• Senior Financial Planner: with more experience and a larger client base, you could become a Senior Financial Planner.
• Financial Planning Manager/ Consultant: You could aim to manage a team of financial planners.
• Finance Director or Chief Financial Officer (CFO): In larger organisations, these roles manage all financial decisions.

What jobs are similar to a financial planner?

• Investment Advisor: providing clients with investment advice to help them achieve their financial goals.
• Estate Planner: focusing on helping clients plan for the distribution and management of their estate.
• Insurance Agent: selling insurance policies and gives advice on insurance matters.

What made you want to become a financial planner?

How did you get your first financial planner job?

What was the one thing that surprised you the most about being a financial planner?

Are you a financial planner? We want you to share your experiences with those looking to start or change their careers to financial planning. If you're interested contact us at mail@calumchilds.com.