I'm debating toward an "ol faithful" government job or a career as a financial planner. I'm graduating with a degree in financial planning in less than a year. I've always been interested in helping people with their finances. I'm a little worried about how difficult it will be to acquire new clients. I'm not agressive and don't like bothering people. Also, what happens if the country goes in a recession while I'm trying to start out. I'm planning on living/working around Grand Rapids, Michigan or a close city that is about half the size.
I've heard good and bad things about different firms, what do you think?
I know that only I can decide which to do, but I would like some input from some current financial planners. Thanks!
2006-06-16 02:11:34 · 5 answers · asked by Amanda 3 in Business & Finance ➔ Careers & Employment
Also, with today's online society, can you be a financial planner "on the side" part-time. Is there a way have all the necessary resources without being affiliated with a firm?
2006-06-16 02:19:52 · update #1
I am a financial planner. The hours are long and yes, it is very difficult to acquire new clients. Most job opportunities are commission-only. If you do not go into this field with a sales mindset, you are not likely to make a great deal of money.
I love what I do, and if I measure success in terms of how I have helped people, I am very successful indeed. But because I am not aggressive, not a sales-orientated person, and not willing to work 70 hours per week, I am not making as much money as I did before.
2006-06-20 06:06:04 · answer #1 · answered by ps2754 5 · 1⤊ 0⤋
I'm not a financial planner, but I'm graduating in Dec, so I've gone along the same route.
Government workers don't get awesome pay. That's why I didn't pick them.
I may be a coward, but the reason I don't want to start by myself out of college is b/c I want firm/corporate experience, contacts, and overall knowledge and resources I wouldn't have normally. I do want to start a business later in life though.
Regarding part-time, I don't see why not. It's awesome, just make sure you don't get too many clients.
2006-06-16 09:38:44 · answer #2 · answered by mommy_mommy_crappypants 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Hi,
You should check out this person's first hand view of being a Certified Financial Planner:
http://www.jobpodge.com/jobTestimonial.php?jobIndex=125&_certified_financial_planner
If that doesn't work for you, try going to the finance section and maybe some of the other finance positions may interest you. My career counselor sent me this site. Good luck!
2006-06-22 02:13:14 · answer #3 · answered by sugarbaby33 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Do what you think is comfortable for you and what you want as far as goals.....You are very smart to think of the economy before making a decision.
2006-06-16 09:16:32 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
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2006-06-17 23:23:43 · answer #5 · answered by hozea 3 · 0⤊ 1⤋