Financial advisor CV example

How to format your CV contact section

The contact section of your financial advisor CV is where recruiters will reach out to you for the next steps, so it’s essential to ensure all your details are correct and easy to find. Providing accurate contact information ensures the recruiter can get in touch with you without any issues. Here’s how to format this section effectively:

• Full Name – both your first and last name
• Location – either state your city or country (mention if you’re open to relocation)
• Phone Number – the best number to reach you
• Email Address – use a professional email address

Example of a contact section

How to write your financial advisor personal statement

Your personal statement is one of the most important sections of your CV. It’s your opportunity to quickly demonstrate your strengths, experience, and what makes you the ideal candidate for the financial advisor role. This section should highlight your professional background, key skills, and your approach to delivering results. Here’s how to structure your personal statement effectively:

• Introduction and career background: Start by providing a brief summary of your experience in the financial industry. Highlight your relevant roles and any key specialisations or achievements.
• Mention your key strengths: Focus on the qualities that make you a strong financial advisor, such as analytical skills, financial planning expertise, and your ability to build client relationships. You can also emphasise your knowledge of financial products, regulations, and your commitment to providing tailored advice to clients.
• Include some metrics: Incorporate measurable results to strengthen your statement. For example, mention how you helped clients increase their investment returns by a certain percentage or how you improved customer retention rates.
• Tailor your statement to the role: Customise your personal statement for each job application. Align your skills and experience with the specific responsibilities outlined in the job description to show why you’re the perfect fit.

Example personal statement

How to showcase your work experience as a financial advisor

The work experience section is one of the most important and examined parts of your CV. This is where you can highlight your expertise in providing financial advice, managing client portfolios, and achieving results that align with the client’s financial goals. Your aim is to show how your experience makes you an effective financial advisor who can drive growth and add value to any organisation. Here’s how to format and showcase your work experience effectively:

• Use a reverse chronological format. Start with your most recent role and work backwards. This format allows employers to see your career progression at a glance. For each job, list the company name, your job title, the dates you worked there, and follow it up with a list of your key responsibilities and achievements.
• Be specific and quantify where possible. Whenever possible, showcase your achievements with specific figures or results. Quantifying your impact makes your contributions more tangible. For example: “Increased client portfolio returns by 12% annually through strategic investment adjustments” or “Successfully managed a portfolio worth £10 million, ensuring strong financial growth and client satisfaction.”
• Tailor your experience to the role. Customise your work experience to match the specific requirements of each financial advisor job you apply for. If the job listing mentions specific skills like “portfolio management” or “tax planning,” ensure those skills are highlighted in your work experience section.
• Be concise but detailed. While providing detailed information is important, ensure your descriptions are concise and impactful. Use bullet points to make it easy to read and focus on the most relevant achievements and responsibilities, avoiding excessive details.

Example of a CV work experience section:

Skills you should include on your financial CV

When reviewing a financial advisor CV, hiring managers look for a clear demonstration of the skills necessary to guide clients through complex financial decisions and provide expert advice. Your CV’s skills section should highlight both technical expertise and interpersonal strengths, showing your ability to analyse financial data while building and maintaining strong client relationships.

A combination of hard skills—specific to the financial advisory role—and soft skills, such as communication and problem-solving, will position you as a well-rounded candidate capable of managing client portfolios, advising on investments, and driving financial strategies. Aim to include 6-8 skills on your CV.

Here are some key skills to consider featuring on your CV:

Outlining education for a financial advisor CV

While your professional experience and skills are the primary focus of your CV, showcasing your academic background can demonstrate your foundational knowledge and commitment to the field.

Relevant degrees in finance, economics, or business administration, as well as certifications like CFP (Certified Financial Planner), can strengthen your profile. For those starting out, your CV education section will be more prominent, as it helps build a foundation of trust with potential employers.

Here’s how to structure the education section:

• Qualification (e.g., BA in Finance, Certified Financial Planner)
• Institution name
• Year of graduation or years attended
• Additional relevant certifications or training (e.g., Financial Risk Manager, Investment Management certificate)

Example of an education section: