FP&A – Should I pursue the CFI FMVA certification if I’m unsure about my skills before starting a new job? If not, what alternative resources would you suggest?
I’m eager to expand my knowledge and skills to enhance my chances of success in my career. Any recommendations would be greatly appreciated!
One response
Deciding whether to pursue the FMVA certification from CFI (Corporate finance Institute) really depends on your career goals and learning preferences. The FMVA program is a great resource for enhancing your skills in financial modeling, valuation, and analysis, which can be incredibly valuable in an FP&A role.
However, if you’re feeling uncertain about your skills, here are a few considerations and alternative resources that might help you:
Self-Assessment: Before committing to the FMVA, take some time to assess your current skills. Are there specific areas in FP&A where you feel less confident? Identifying these gaps can help you focus your learning efforts more effectively.
Free Resources: Explore free online courses and tutorials that cover FP&A fundamentals. Websites like Coursera, Udemy, and even YouTube offer introductory content that can build your confidence without any financial commitment.
Practice with Real-World Scenarios: Consider working on case studies or practical exercises that simulate FP&A tasks. This hands-on approach can significantly boost your confidence and skills.
Networking and Mentorship: Connect with professionals in the field through LinkedIn or industry meetups. Having a mentor can provide guidance, answer your questions, and share their experiences, which might clarify what additional skills you need.
Workshops and Short Courses: If the FMVA feels like a big commitment right now, look for shorter workshops or courses focused on specific areas of FP&A, such as financial modeling or budgeting.
Books and Articles: There are many excellent books and resources on financial analysis and FP&A. Titles like “Financial Modeling” by Simon Benninga or “The CFO Guidebook” by Steven Bragg can be very insightful.
If you find that you are seriously interested in advancing your FP&A career and the FMVA aligns with that direction, it could be a worthwhile investment. Ultimately, the key is to take steps that best suit your current situation, learning style, and career aspirations. Good luck!