If you’re considering becoming a financial advisor in Orlando, there are some steps you’ll need to follow. Becoming a financial advisor requires education in the right subjects, as well as getting certifications. Work experience and internships can help as well.

Earn a Bachelor’s Degree in a Related Subject

Technically, you can earn a Bachelor’s degree in anything and still be able to become a financial advisor afterward. However, it’s recommended to choose a subject that is relevant to financial advising. For example, accounting, economics, and business are all good options. Specifically, taking classes in investment management, finance, risk management, and estate planning can help a lot. 

You can still qualify as a financial advisor without a related degree, but many employees may look for a finance-related degree in their prospective employees.

Get Some Experience

If possible, getting an internship with a financial advisor is an excellent idea. This can give you some practical work experience and look really good on a resume later on. In many cases, practical work experience related to financial advice can help you get hired later on. An internship isn’t necessarily required, but especially if you don’t have a lot of related coursework, it can help boost your appeal to potential employers.

Become Licensed as a Financial Advisor

Once you’ve completed your education and have some experience, it’s time to earn licenses and qualifications. There are numerous different licenses and designations that you can earn and which ones are best depends on your area of specialization and what services you or the company you want to work for offer. Each license has its own requirements that you’ll need to meet. In some cases, this involves coursework offered by the institution that gives out the license. Most, if not all, licenses and designations require an exam. 

On top of that, many certifications require regular re-certification. Things can change quickly in the world of finance and financial advisors need to maintain their knowledge and skills by re-qualifying, usually every year.

Look for a Financial Advisor Job

Once you’ve got your education and internship, and are licensed to be a financial advisor, it’s time to look for a job as one. You’ll need to make sure that wherever you’re applying aligns with your own interests. It’s best for you, the company, and the client if your area of interest when it comes to financial advice matches the company’s services and area of expertise. 

You may be able to use networking contacts from when you got certified for a license. Many financial advisor organizations offer networking opportunities and may be able to pair you with a mentor.

Look for an Employer with In-Depth Training Opportunities

When you look for an employer, it’s also important to make sure that they offer in-depth training for new employees. If you’re just starting out as a financial advisor, training and mentorship will go a long way toward helping you to hone your skills and better serve your clients.