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Career Guide

What Makes CFP® Certification Different?

More and more consumers understand the importance of working with a financial planner they can trust. As part of their certification, CFP® professionals demonstrate their expertise and commit to high standards to earn the respect of their clients. This makes CFP® certification a valued credential to help you stand out and complement your other designations.

THE STANDARD OF EXCELLENCE

CFP® Certification Stands Out

As part of their certification, CFP® professionals commit to CFP Board's Code of Ethics and Standards of Conduct, which means they commit to work in their clients' best interests at all times when providing financial advice. Not all financial planners make that commitment to their profession.

CFP® certification also demonstrates that you have a strong commitment to personal financial planning and that you are an expert in your field. Your clients want to work with a planner who can give them excellent advice that fits their unique situation. Because you invest in education, rigorous testing and real-world experience while you earn CFP® certification, you will have the confidence and the skills to give your clients the advice they need. You’ll be able to build valuable, long-term relationships with your clients while becoming a valuable contributor to your company.

CFP® Certification Complements Your Existing Credentials

Some CFP® professionals started in other careers and fields. Many come from related fields in the financial services industry. Those who hold other professional designations and licenses decide to add the CFP® mark to their resume to complement their existing credentials, demonstrate their commitment to personal financial planning and help them to stand out from the competition.

Richard Salmen, CFP®
Former Chair of CFP Board's Board of Directors

CFP® certification helps you build relationships, and it helps your firm grow. Our clients are happy and they tell other people, because we have such a trusted personal connection with them.