Understanding fiscal issues and providing guidance to clients are some of the many tasks of a Financial Advisor. A Consultant may research, analyse, forecast, sell financial products, develop strategies, prepare reports and perform many other fiscal related activities. Having certifications or being a part of professional associations is helpful to their career, like being a member of the Society for Financial Advisors (MSFA) or having a Certificate in Financial Planning (CFP).
Professionals who have many years of service in the financial industry or an excellent record of accomplishment are more successful in this position. Clients will be quick to trust their expert advice based on those facts. Consultants with their own businesses work long, demanding hours to thrive in their jobs. They earn excellent salaries working with companies. One who sells many fiscal products earns even greater compensation.
A Financial Advisor usually performs any of the following tasks:
•  Performing in-depth analysis
• Meeting client requirements
• Developing fiscal measures
• Advising clients
•  Researching information related to financial products
•  Selling financial products
• Negotiating sales targets
•  Communicating with financial services providers
•  Following market trends
•  Reporting on fiscal matters

• Understanding complex information
• Analysing financial data
• Team building
• Collaboration
• Consistency
• Proficiency
• Professionalism
• Adaptability
• Research and analysis
• Client confidentiality
• Listening and communication
• Record keeping
• Using electronic and technological equipment and applications
• Being trustworthy

A Financial Advisor should have no less than a Bachelor's Degree in Finance. Degrees in Economics, Statistics, Accounting or Mathematics are also acceptable. Other certifications that may be relevant to this position include:
•    FPC 1, 2 and 3
•    CAS
•    QCA Level 4
•    CII Diploma in Financial Planning
•    Advanced Diploma or Associate's Degree
•    ACA/ ACCA
•    MBA
•    Post-graduate Degrees