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Financial Advisor

Financial advisors (also referred to as financial planners or financial consultants) help guide individuals in investment choices. They carry out financial research and analysis to provide investment suggestions to clients. Financial advisors may also assist their clients in tax planning, estate and retirement planning as well as household finances.

Employers:
Individuals
Bank of America Merrill Lynch
Charles Schwab
Edward Jones
Fidelity Investments

Qualifications/Preferred Skills:
Financial advisors generally have a bachelor's degree and have taken the Certified Financial Planner (CFP) exam. In order to sell stocks, bonds and mutual funds, financial planners also need licenses obtained through the FINRA exams. Financial advisors have good people and sales skills. They need to have strong analytical skills as well. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for personal financial advisors is expected to grow 30% between 2014 and 2024.

National Average Salary:
$90,640​​

How will your economics degree help in this field?
Financial advisors, like economic students, must have strong analytical skills. Financial advisors are able to understand and project market trends. ​

References:
http://www.investopedia.com/articles/financialcareers/06/financialplanningquiz.asp
http://www.bls.gov/ooh/business-and-financial/personal-financial-advisors.htmhttp://www.allbusinessschools.com/business-careers/finance/job-description/