Brown also pointed out that a career in financial planning is predominantly about people.
“You can choose to work in a particular niche if you have a passion for something, but it allows you to work with a real variety of people and really make a difference to people’s lives,” she said.
Likewise, business adviser and founder of Trachet, Claire Trachet agreed that people are key, especially when starting out.
Trachet encouraged anyone considering a career in finance to reach out to people on LinkedIn and show keeness to speak to them for 15 minutes.
“Never be shy to reach out and be open about seeking help or mentoring. People are willing to help you,” she said.
Continuum chartered financial adviser Stephanie McClarence pointed out that while there are plenty of academies and training programmes on offer for those considering a career in financial advice, it is a good idea for individuals to look into the exams and do their own research.
“The best training programmes can be competitive so if you want to put yourself ahead of the curve look into taking one or two financial services exams off your own back, especially if you want to be an adviser.
“This will show the training programmes and potential employers that you are committed and that you’re keen to get started,” McClarence said.
“Make sure that any potential employer who offers the opportunity to enter an academy or training programme gives you the opportunity to complete actual industry exams. Some have started offering their own version of industry exams which won’t help you if you choose to move on,” she added.
“It sounds really cliché, but as a financial adviser you are literally helping people achieve their dreams. Whether that’s retiring early, or protecting their families, there’s so much you can do to help improve people’s lives and reduce their stress that they may not even consider.”
Kleinwort Hanbros’s director of senior wealth planner, Nji Lorimer agreed that helping clients meet their financial goals is a core appeal of the industry and described client meetings as “the most interesting part of the job”.
Lorimer also pointed out that the pace of change in the industry is exciting.
“When I joined financial services in 2008 we still used paper files and there was very little diversity, I certainly stood out. Now technology is revolutionising the level of service we can provide to our clients and diversity and inclusion is a core part of the culture at most firms.”
“Whilst I joined after graduating from university, some of the best advisers I know are school leavers without degrees. There is no right way to approach it.
“The best way to enter the industry is with an open mind and a willingness to alter any preconceptions about what you think it’s going to be like. I have seen lots of interns over the years whether school leavers or university graduates and the best ones are those who can be flexible in their way of thinking.”
