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Survey of Trends in the Financial Planning Industry 2022

Written by: College for Financial Planning
Published on: Sep 28, 2022

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Photo credit: metamorworks/Adobe Stock

The financial planning industry is continuously evolving, and financial education is the key to career advancement as a financial professional. 

The College for Financial Planning -- a Kaplan Company -- sent a survey to graduates of their four professional designation programs, Master of Science degree programs, and CFP®  certificants from other schools from August through November 2021. 86% of respondents were currently a practicing financial services professional. 36% reported being currently employed in financial planning, 24% in investment planning, and 17% in securities. Over one third had been working in the financial planning industry for 10 or more years. 62% were male, 48% between 35 and 54 years old, 61% had a bachelor's degree, and most came from a background of finance, business, or social science.

KEY TAKEAWAYS
The findings listed here reflect the highest percentage of responses for items about the financial practitioner profile, their clients, and viewpoints of professionals in the industry.

Reason for Pursuing a Financial Services Career

28% said they were looking to help others

Financial Credentials Earned

Half held securities licenses, followed by the CFP® designation. 79% report having greater confidence in speaking with clients after receiving credentials, and 67% reported greater career satisfaction.

Earning Potential

Overall increase in earning potential after obtaining credentials was 17%.

What They Do

Over two-thirds manage assets.

Work Environment

82% report being employed by a financial services firm.

Pay Structure

Almost half were paid a fee and commission as their primary form of compensation for the financial planning services they provide.

Clients

A little under half report having less than 100 clients. Over had been working with their clients for more than five years.

For the full survey report and analysis, read Survey of Trends in the Financial Planning Industry 2022 at https://www.kaplanfinancial.com/wealth-management/resources/survey-of-trends#report.