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Financial Adviser
Looking ahead
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Financial advisers work with clients to find financial products that suit their needs. A client could be one person, an organisation or a group of individuals. The sorts of products they give advice on may include investments, life insurance and critical illness cover, pensions and savings plans, mortgages and other borrowings, secured and unsecured.

There are two quite distinct types of financial adviser:

· They may be tied to an individual bank, building society or insurance company, advising solely on the financial products of that organisation.

· They may have a broader role as an independent adviser, recommending suitable investments, mortgages, pensions and insurance policies on an impartial basis.

When they have identified a product that is appropriate, financial advisers need to explain all the details clearly, with the minimum of jargon. They need to point out the potential benefits and any limitations so that the client can make an informed decision.

Entry level

While there are no formal academic entry requirements, the most prestigious employers would require a high standard of education. Many financial advisers are graduates. A degree in finance and accountancy, business studies or related subjects may be an advantage, but a confident, professional character is just as important. Clients look for maturity in their adviser, so school leavers are rarely employed directly into this role.

Entry to a degree is with at least two A levels/three H grades and five GCSEs/S grades (A-C/1-3), or equivalent qualifications.

Making the grade

You would have to undertake recognised industry training, regulated by the Financial Services Authority (FSA).

Training for an FSA-recognised qualification normally takes between two and three years. Employers tend to be fully supportive of all professional qualifications, and most would provide training and pay for exams, but you would be expected to put in a lot of study time outside your normal working hours. To pass, you would need to show a good understanding of the financial services sector and to be able to share this knowledge with clients.

Younger financial advisers tend to start as tied consultants. As they gain experience, they may join a firm of independent financial advisers, or go into business by themselves. If you are enthusiastic, can make clients feel comfortable and have good product knowledge, you can progress quickly.

Personal qualities

As a financial adviser, you would need to be capable of understanding financial products, which may be complex, yet able to communicate the benefits of these products simply.

You must be a clear and concise communicator, with good listening and questioning skills, you must be numerate and comfortable using computers, and you must be able to inspire trust.