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What does a Financial Planner do?

Photo of Brenna Goyette
Brenna Goyette
Certified Professional Resume Writer, Career Expert

Published 4 min read

A financial planner is a professional who helps people plan for their financial future. They can help with things like investing, retirement planning, and estate planning. Financial planners can work with individuals, families, or businesses.

Financial Planner job duties include:

  • Advise clients on financial planning strategies, including investment strategies, risk management, and tax planning
  • Analyze clients’ financial information and make recommendations accordingly
  • Develop and implement financial plans for clients
  • Monitor clients’ investments and provide updates and recommendations as needed
  • Keep abreast of changes in the financial industry to ensure that clients’ portfolios are properly diversified
  • Review clients’ goals and objectives on a regular basis to ensure that their financial plans are still on track
  • Prepare reports for clients detailing their progress towards meeting their financial goals
  • Answer clients’ questions and address any concerns they may have about their finances
  • Educate clients on financial topics such as investing, retirement planning, estate planning, etc.

Financial Planner Job Requirements

A financial planner is a professional who helps people save and invest for their future. Financial planners typically have a bachelor's degree in finance or a related field, and many also have certification from the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards. Financial planners typically have several years of experience working in the financial industry before becoming a financial planner.

Financial Planner Skills

  • Analytical
  • Proactive
  • Strategic
  • Organized
  • Attention to Detail
  • Communication
  • Math
  • Problem Solving
  • Active Listening
  • Writing
  • Critical Thinking

Related: Top Financial Planner Skills: Definition and Examples

How to become a Financial Planner

A financial planner is a professional who helps people save money and plan for their future financial security. Financial planners typically have a four-year degree in finance or a related field, and many also have certification from the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards.

The first step to becoming a financial planner is to complete your education. You'll need at least a four-year degree in finance or a related field to get started in this career. Many financial planners also choose to get certified by the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards.

Once you have your education and certification, you'll need to find a job with a financial planning firm. You can also start your own financial planning business, but working for an established firm can give you access to resources and clients that you might not have on your own.

As a financial planner, you'll work with clients to assess their financial needs and goals. You'll then develop a plan to help them save money and reach their financial goals. This may include investing in stocks, bonds, and other assets; saving for retirement; and creating a budget.

Financial planning is a rewarding career that can help people achieve their dreams. If you're interested in helping others reach their financial goals, consider becoming a financial planner.

Related: Financial Planner Resume Example

Related: Financial Planner Interview Questions (With Example Answers)

Editorial staff

Photo of Brenna Goyette, Editor

Editor

Brenna Goyette

Expert Verified

Brenna is a certified professional resume writer, career expert, and the content manager of the ResumeCat team. She has a background in corporate recruiting and human resources and has been writing resumes for over 10 years. Brenna has experience in recruiting for tech, finance, and marketing roles and has a passion for helping people find their dream jobs. She creates expert resources to help job seekers write the best resumes and cover letters, land the job, and succeed in the workplace.

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