Guide to financial planning careers

& (StatePoint)—The demand for financial planners is on the rise, making this an attractive professional path for anyone to consider, from students to career changers. With the goal of promoting a talented financial planning workforce whom Americans can trust, CFP Board is sharing the following career insights with those interested in the profession: What do financial planners do? Utilizing their expert knowledge, financial planners advise their clients on decisions that help them meet their short- and long-term financial goals. Financial planners may work for entities like banks, broker-dealers or investment firms, or they may work for themselves at a solo practice. What are the top benefits of being a financial planner? With only 5-10 years of experience, financial planners can expect to earn between $126,945 to $213,126 per year. But benefits go beyond the monetary. Being a financial planner also offers career flexibility and work-life balance, personal fulfillment and intellectual stimulation. What does a typical career path look like? Career paths vary by employer and individual expertise. However, most planners start as analysts and move up through the ranks, working as associate advisors, senior advisors, lead advisors/managing directors and sometimes stepping into the role of principal/partner. This latter position had...