Seeking opportunities for a future in paraplanning! Any tips & advice much appreciated!
SnehaK
Member
Hi everyone!
Newbie here! I am looking for a way into the world of paraplanning! As someone without the necessary experience in the field, my thinking is that I need to start in an administrator/ trainee paraplanner role with a view to doing exams and progressing inhouse to a paraplanner role. I was wondering if anyone is aware of current vacancies for financial services administrator roles (with opportunity to train as paraplanner)? Or if you have any tips on specific websites, firms that have previously offered similar roles or just resources in general, I would love to hear about it.
To offer a bit of background on myself; I am based In Southampton so looking for roles in the wider Southampton, Bournemouth, Winchester and Fareham area. I have previously worked as an administrator for OMW/Quilter, so I have a bit of background in financial services but not necessarily the paraplanning aspect of it. I have a Master's degree in Biotechnology, so a bit of a change of fields for me but I learn quicker on the job which is I am looking to combine hands on experience with studying for the necessary qualifications.
I am really looking forward to hearing your thoughts and thank you so much for any advice.
Cheers!
Comments
Hi @SnehaK
Welcome to the Big Tent and to paraplanning!
This is a topic that comes up a lot in here and happily there is a ton of help available for you
I won't repeat all the info that's in them but some of the threads in the New to paraplanning section that might be of help are:
https://thebigtent.paraplannersassembly.co.uk/discussion/1469/changing-careers-within-financial-services#latest
https://thebigtent.paraplannersassembly.co.uk/discussion/653/moving-into-a-paraplanning-role#latest
https://thebigtent.paraplannersassembly.co.uk/discussion/652/help-will-always-be-given-at-the-powwow-to-those-who-ask-for-it#latest
This is also a very helpful read if you are new to paraplanning: https://www.thepfs.org/media/10128418/getting-you-started-in-paraplanning-2.pdf
There's also a ton of resources on this website (full disclosure - it's mine! 😂) which may also be useful: https://www.sparrowsols.co.uk/paraplanner-help-and-resources
Starting in an administrator or trainee paraplanner role is a great start, particularly if the company you join has a career path / track for it. One way of finding out is to send your CVs to companies on spec as sometimes roles like that aren't advertised quite so widely, but also getting involved and building your network is a great way to hear of opportunities.
I hope that's helpful but just drop me a note if you'd like a natter at all!
Hi @Caro! Thank you for your comment and links to resources, much appreciated! Great tip about sending out my CV to companies for unadvertised roles.