How do I get into financial services?

This depends on the level you want to join. Generally, most financial services roles require you to hold industry qualifications e.g. CeMAP / MAQ for mortgage advisers and Level 4 Diploma in Regulated Financial Planning for financial advisers advising on investments, pensions and life products. Protection only advisers are not always required to hold professional qualifications. For sales roles a background in sales is preferred. There are some employers that will consider taking individuals looking to come into the industry for the first time although most will expect to see some progress already in gaining the industry qualifications. It is worth considering starting as an Administrator / Paraplanner and building up your experience to move on to other roles as you develop your career. We also recruit for Graduate Academy programmes helping graduate calibre individuals to join firms as trainee advisers and become qualified over a 12 month period. Our trained consultants will provide advice on your immediate and long term career goals.