Financial consulting is one of the most sought after services not only by large corporations, individual clients, but government agencies as well. A financial consultant has the needed expertise, educational background and experience to provide an expert opinion on proposed business plan, complex investment portfolio, taxation, risk assessment, income management, and long-term planning. To become a financial consultant, one must be recognized by the Institute of Financial Consultants. This will only happen if the needed education program and examinations were completed to satisfaction.
Right now, there are two main types of financial consulting; business and personal. In business consulting arrangement, the client will ask for the opinion of the consultant in regards to their specific plan or concept. The role of consultant is to review the said proposed plan. After assessment, he is expected to provide advice on pending government regulations, risk management, long-term viability, and industry trends. In this type of work, consultants must have background related to insurance management, finance, accounting, and business management. It’s also a must that the consultant has at least 10 years of practical experience. Their experience will surely add more perspective and value.
In personal consulting arrangement, individual clients who have significant financial resources are hiring financial consultants that offer services that include taxation planning, long-term planning, income management, and investment advice. A consultant is expected to manage the portfolio in order to obtain maximum benefits without taking huge risks. Financial consultants who focus on serving individual clients are expected to have a background in financial planning and accounting. They must also have at least 5 years personal finance management experience.