I’m facing a decision after quitting my admin job of two years. While I’ve been preparing for the SIE exam, I’ve received two job offers: one for a $40k admin position with regular hours, and another for a commission-only sales role that allows for a flexible schedule. Since I live in the Midwest, salaries tend to be lower, but I’ve saved enough for living expenses to give myself some breathing room as I explore my options.
My main concern is the possibility of not landing a position as a financial advisor due to my lack of a finance degree; I hold a liberal arts bachelor’s degree. I found out that a local school offers an online certificate for the CFP coursework, but I would need sponsorship to pursue that. I’m open to that idea, but I’m unsure about the best path forward. What should I do?
One response
It sounds like you’re at an important crossroads in your career, and each option presents its own advantages and challenges. Here are some points to consider for each offer:
Cons: If you’re looking for growth opportunities in finance, this role may not help you build relevant skills or experience.
Commission-Only Sales Job:
Cons: There’s risk involved due to the commission-only structure, especially if you’re not familiar with sales. If sales are slow, it could lead to financial uncertainty.
Junior Financial Advisor Role:
If you’re seriously considering a career in financial advising, it might serve you well to pursue opportunities in that direction, even if it means starting in a junior role. Your liberal arts background can provide a unique perspective and set of skills that can be valuable in finance.
Given you have living expenses covered for a while, you might consider networking with professionals in the financial industry. This could help you better understand the hiring landscape and what qualifications firms are seeking.
Ultimately, weigh your immediate financial needs against your long-term career goals. If you believe that being a financial advisor aligns with your aspirations and you are motivated to pursue it further, you might prioritize that path, even if it takes some time to secure a position. Conversely, if immediate financial stability is your biggest concern, the admin job could provide a safety net while you continue to explore options in finance.
Whichever path you choose, it’s important to keep learning and networking, as these efforts can open doors in the financial sector. Good luck!