Obtaining the Chartered Financial Analyst® (CFA) designation is a highly respected accomplishment in the finance industry and can open up various career opportunities. But if you’re considering making a career switch, you may wonder if the CFA® charter will be worth the time and effort for your specific goals. So, why would someone strive to earn the charter? One reason is that it can enhance your credibility and expertise. The CFA charter is widely recognized as a sign of dedication to the profession and a commitment to ethical practices. This can make you a more attractive candidate for job opportunities and higher salaries.
In this article, we’ll explore the potential benefits of earning the CFA charter and how it can help you transition into a new career.
Career ‘Plus’ That Comes With the CFA Charter
The CFA charter can be especially valuable if you’re looking to transition into a role in investment management or research. Many positions require a strong understanding of financial analysis and valuation, which are emphasized in the CFA program. Additionally, the charter can give you a competitive edge when applying for these roles, demonstrating your knowledge and commitment to the industry.
However, it’s important to note that the charter alone may not be sufficient to make a career switch. While the CFA designation can be a valuable addition to your resume, you may also need other skills and experience relevant to your desired career path. For example, if you’re looking to switch to a sales or marketing role within the finance industry, earning the CFA charter may be less directly applicable, and you may also need different experience, training, or education. Or, if you’re interested in transitioning into a more general business role, an MBA may be more relevant.
Here are a few ways the CFA charter can help you make an effective career transition:
It Demonstrates Your Commitment and Knowledge in Finance
One of the primary ways the CFA charter can help you switch careers is by demonstrating your commitment and knowledge in finance. The CFA program is a rigorous and demanding process. Obtaining the charter shows that you have a deep understanding of the subject matter and are dedicated to your career. This can be especially valuable if you are looking to switch into a finance role from a different industry, as it shows that you have taken the time and effort to learn the necessary skills and knowledge.
It Can Open up New Job Opportunities
Having the charter on your resume can also open up new CFA-related career opportunities that may not have been available to you. Many finance-industry employers place a high value on the CFA charter and may prioritize candidates who have obtained it when filling open positions. Additionally, the CFA Institute maintains a job board specifically for CFA charterholders, where leading industry employers post job openings, providing another avenue for finding employment opportunities.
It Can Lead To Salary Increases and Career Advancement
Earning the CFA charter can also lead to salary increases and career advancement. According to a survey conducted by the CFA Institute, CFA charterholders earned, on average, significantly more than non-charterholders in the same job roles.
| Industries that CFA charterholders work in |
Indexed CFA salary
(100% = Sample Average) |
| Investment Banking | 127% |
| Equity and Fixed Income Research | 120% |
| Fund Management | 118% |
| Private Wealth Management | 100% |
Moreover, obtaining the CFA charter may make you a more competitive candidate for promotions and other advancement opportunities within your organization.
It’s important to note, however, that the CFA charter is not a magic bullet that will automatically open doors to a new career. While it can certainly be an advantage, you will still need relevant work experience and a strong CFA resume to stand out in the job market. The CFA program is known for being demanding and time-consuming, so you should be prepared to put in the effort to earn the charter; this will reflect well on you once you’ve earned the charter, but it can make it difficult to get there.
