How do I start off in finance?????

[bazw]

Hi all,

I am 31 years old and currently a teamleader in the distribution side for a large furniture company. I am looking for a new challenge and interested in becoming a financial advisor. I am looking to re-sit my GCSE's in English and Maths to get back into the studying side of things and would be grateful for any advice on where to proceed from there. Can anyone help.

Thanks Barry

[nuoyg]

Hi bazw - if I were you I think I would see if I could see a careers type person....years ago I used to work for a financial advisor mortgage consultants type place and in that field there are specific exams relating to that work, so they may be more relavant than gcse's (pls don't quote me on that, as i'm not a careers advisor)...for the sake of thirty minutes of your time it could be well worth it.  Or if you have a local library they may have careers type information?  Also sometimes big cities hold career fares (i know they have them in Ldn) so you could keep your eyes peeled for those.  I hope you work out the best plan of action for you and good luck!

[catra1]

investigate the OU you don't need to have a degree and possibly don't need A levale....it can feel expensive but I have made more than my money back as it helped me get a new career on a better salary after 3 years of part time study

[Miss Zippy]

If you are interest is being an independent financial adviser, then you might want to consider studying for the Financial Planning Certificate. It is a relatively low level exam (GCSE level) but one that most advisers have.  On completing this, you can then go on to specialise in areas that interest you, such as pensions, trusts or investment management by studying for Advanced Financial Planning Certificates.  Speak to local firms in your area and see what quaifications they look for.  Also, a good way in as a financial adviser is to start off as a 'paraplanner' - these assist the advisers by carrying out research into different products and doing number crunching.