Fulfillment, purpose and work-life balance: Is a career as a financial adviser right for you?

There are many reasons to consider a career as a financial adviser. From a sense of fulfillment by making a meaningful impact in clients' lives to the potential for personal and professional growth with a healthy work-life balance, the role of a financial adviser holds numerous benefits in the unique landscape of New Zealand's financial services sector. 

Fulfilling and purposeful work with a tangible impact:

At the heart of financial advice services lies the opportunity to make a tangible difference in the lives of individuals and families. By providing personalised guidance and strategic planning, financial advisers empower clients to achieve their financial goals, whether it's purchasing a home, saving for retirement, or planning for their children's education.  The satisfaction of witnessing clients' aspirations become reality is a deeply fulfilling and rewarding aspect of the profession.

Flexibility, freedom and work-life balance:

One of the appealing aspects of a career as a financial adviser is the flexibility and autonomy it affords. Whether working as an independent financial adviser or within a firm, advisers have the opportunity to structure their schedules and client interactions according to their preferences. This flexibility not only allows for a better work-life balance but also fosters a sense of ownership and independence in one's career. Financial advisers can also enjoy a competitive income and the opportunity for financial stability and growth once they establish themselves and develop a robust client base.

High demand for professional expertise:

In an increasingly complex financial landscape, the demand for qualified financial advisers is on the rise. As individuals seek trusted guidance to navigate intricate financial decisions, the role of the adviser becomes indispensable. The aging population and growing wealth accumulation has further fuelled the need for highly-skilled financial advisers who can provide comprehensive and tailored solutions to meet diverse client needs.

Continuous learning and professional development:

From obtaining industry certifications to pursuing higher education opportunities, financial advisers have many ways to enhance their knowledge and skills. This commitment to ongoing education not only ensures financial advisers remain abreast of regulatory changes and best practices but also opens doors to new career opportunities and specialisations.
 

How to become a financial adviser:

To embark on a career as a financial adviser in New Zealand, individuals need to obtain relevant qualifications and meet regulatory requirements such as the Certificate of Financial Advice offered by Massey University in partnership with Kaplan Professional.
This qualification is mapped to the New Zealand Certificate in Financial Services (Level 5), Version 2 and meets the standard required by the Code of Professional Conduct for Financial Advice Services in New Zealand.
In addition to the core subject, Introduction to Financial Advice, you can choose to focus on a particular knowledge area by tailoring your study to specialise in a specific area of interest, or to align with your career aspirations. 
You can choose from four (4) areas of focus:

  • Investment
  • Life, disability and health insurance
  • General insurance
  • Residential property lending

When does the next intake start?

This qualification is delivered 100% online and there are six intakes each year.
The next intake starts on 3 June, with enrolments for new students closing on 26 May.
Other remaining intakes this year include:

  • Semester Two (late) - 5 August 2024 (enrol by 28 July 2024)
  • Summer School (early) - 7 October 2024 (enrol by 29 September 2024)
  • Summer School (late) - 9 December 2024 (enrol by 1 December 2024)

What pathways are available?

Those who have finished the Certificate in Financial Advice can go on to complete two additional specialist subjects (in areas such as client engagement and ethics) to achieve the Diploma in Business Studies (Financial Advice) [insert link] -- a higher-level qualification that is above the minimum education standard.
The Diploma of Business Studies (Financial Advice) also provides entry with credits into Massey University’s Bachelor of Business (Financial Planning and Advice) – the only qualification of its kind in the country.

Eager to find out more?

Visit this website page
Or complete an enquiry form and we will get in touch with you