Competition in the financial sector is fiercely intense. As professionals progress in their careers, the opportunities for promotion or attracting influential clients often become narrower. Ensuring you have the best potential in your financial career relies heavily on passing stringent financial exams. It’s the most effective method of proving your abilities and dedication.
Studying a financial qualification can open up many opportunities for students and lead them towards exciting careers worldwide. Reuters recently reported that New York and London remained in the top two places in the latest Global Financial Centres Index. Perhaps a small finance career can be opened up by exploring job possibilities in these areas.
Firstly, research what it takes to study for a financial qualification
The difficulty of advanced financial exams means the pass rate generally falls between 40% and 53%. Failure must be unthinkable after a punishing schedule spending lengthy hours combining work and study. To make the most of the investment in your abilities and future prospects, you can seek expert guidance from resources such as 300hours.com. The well-respected site is operated by experienced financial charter-holders and offers informative articles, valuable research, and essential study guides for those in the process of studying for exams, including CFA and FRM qualifications.
What it takes to study for a financial qualification: determination & in-depth studying
Greater recognition can be achieved through qualifying as a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) or Financial Risk Manager (FRM). Both of these postgraduate qualifications are internationally recognized by some of the world’s largest corporations. Studying to become an advanced financial charter-holder takes approximately five years or at least 1,000 hours of your spare time. Completing every level is arguably the equivalent of gaining a doctorate.
Enrolling for CFA or FRM certification requires in-depth studying during your spare time while already working in the financial sector. The recommended amount of daily study is six hours, which leaves little time for hobbies or socializing. Gaining any of these advanced qualifications proves the devotion and commitment you are prepared to undertake for the sake of your career. It demonstrates you have excellent motivation and resilience.
Another notable certification in the financial industry is the Series 7 license, administered by the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA). The Series 7 exam assesses the competency of individuals who wish to work as general securities representatives, enabling them to sell a wide range of securities products. It covers topics such as investment products, customer interactions, and regulatory guidelines. Aspiring financial professionals often wonder how long to study for the Series 7. While the duration may vary depending on individual circumstances and prior knowledge, allocating around 100-150 hours of focused study is generally suggested. This time frame allows candidates to grasp the comprehensive content of the exam and increases their chances of success. However, it’s important to note that each person’s learning pace and background may influence the duration of their preparation. Depending on their familiarity with the subject matter, some individuals may require more or less time.
Advanced financial qualifications enrich your personal expertise with a deeper understanding of the industry. They demonstrate how different roles and departments are inextricably linked. Your studies are designed to improve your personal teamwork abilities. Being able to seamlessly integrate with established financial teams should make you an indispensable member of any organization. The increased level of expertise helps present you as reliable, dependable, and ultimately resourceful.
The advantages of financial qualifications for professional careers
An enhanced reputation in your chosen field of expertise is a significant advantage often gained through advanced financial certification. It also identifies you as trustworthy. Your studies usually involve a strong emphasis on professional standards within the industry. Employers view such qualifications as a sign of personal and professional integrity. At least 90% of companies recruit junior executives on the strength of their ethical standards. Such employees are usually valued as they help impress new clients while enhancing the reputation of the company.
Enrolling in a long-term study for professional qualifications improves your career prospects in the most lucrative financial markets. An internationally recognized charter is often a standard requirement with flourishing financial companies in any global location. It enables you to aim for desirable career moves with financial prosperity that would otherwise be completely out of your reach. According to an article from Northeastern University, some of the top-paying entry-level finance jobs in 2021 include becoming a Financial Manager, Personal Finance Advisor, and Management Analyst.
In any business, the roles of senior executives and CEOs are few and far between. The most ambitious executives who want their careers to progress as far as possible find an advanced financial charter invaluable. Up to 25% of employers deem it essential to an applicant’s CV. Studying at a higher level is another form of investment. It should bring its own rewards in career satisfaction in the years to come.
