If you are pursuing a career in the finance industry, chances are you will need to obtain FINRA licenses at some point. Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) licenses are required for certain positions in the financial industry and demonstrate your expertise and credibility in the field. However, knowing how to list your FINRA licenses on your resume can be a bit daunting if you are unfamiliar with the process. In this guide, we will walk you through the steps of listing FINRA licenses on your resume and provide you with useful tips along the way.
Types of FINRA Licenses
Before we begin, let’s first discuss the different types of FINRA licenses that exist. There are several types of FINRA licenses, and the type you need will depend on your specific job role. Here are some of the most common types of FINRA licenses:
- Series 6: This license qualifies individuals to sell mutual funds, variable annuities, and similar financial products.
- Series 7: This license is required for individuals who want to deal with the sale of securities, such as stocks, bonds, and options.
- Series 63: This license is required for individuals who want to become securities agents and deal with buying and selling securities on behalf of clients.
- Series 65: This license is required for individuals who want to give investment advice or manage client assets.
- Series 66: This license is a combination of the Series 63 and Series 65 licenses and is required for individuals who want to provide investment advice and manage client assets.
Tips for Obtaining FINRA Licenses
Obtaining a FINRA license requires a significant amount of studying and preparation. Here are some tips to help you successfully obtain your FINRA license:
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Choose the right study materials: There are several study materials available to help you prepare for your FINRA exam, including textbooks, online courses, and study guides. Choose the study material that best aligns with your learning style and schedule.
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Create a study schedule: Creating a study schedule can help you stay on track and ensure you are allocating enough time to study. Make sure to include breaks in your schedule to avoid burnout.
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Take practice exams: Taking practice exams can help you identify areas where you may need to focus your studying. Practice exams can also help you get comfortable with the exam format and time limits.
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Stay organized: Keep all of your study materials, notes, and practice exams in one location to help you stay organized.
How to List FINRA Licenses on Your Resume
Now that you have obtained your FINRA license, it’s time to list it on your resume. Here are some tips to help you properly list your FINRA licenses:
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List your FINRA license in the “Certifications” section of your resume. If you don’t have a “Certifications” section, you can add it under “Skills” or “Education.”
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List your FINRA license and the date you obtained it. For example, “FINRA Series 7 – Obtained April 2021.”
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If you have multiple FINRA licenses, list them in chronological order, with the most recent license first.
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Be specific about the type of license. Don’t just list “FINRA License”, but instead list the specific type of license you obtained.
Incorporating Your FINRA License in Job Applications and Interviews
Your FINRA license can help set you apart from other candidates when applying for a job in the finance industry. Here are some tips for incorporating your FINRA license in job applications and interviews:
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Highlight your FINRA license in your cover letter. Let the hiring manager know that you have obtained your FINRA license and that it demonstrates your expertise in the field.
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Use your FINRA license as a talking point during the interview. Be prepared to discuss the specific license you obtained and how it relates to the job you are applying for.
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Provide a copy of your FINRA license. Bring a copy of your FINRA license with you to the interview to demonstrate your qualifications.
Key Takeaways
- FINRA licenses are required for certain roles in the finance industry and demonstrate your expertise and credibility in the field.
- There are several types of FINRA licenses, including Series 6, Series 7, Series 63, Series 65, and Series 66.
- To obtain a FINRA license, choose the right study materials, create a study schedule, take practice exams, and stay organized.
- When listing FINRA licenses on your resume, include the type of license, the date you obtained it, and list it in the “Certifications,” “Skills,” or “Education” section of your resume.
- When applying for jobs or interviewing, use your FINRA license as a selling point by highlighting it in your cover letter, discussing it during the interview, and providing a copy of your license if necessary.
FAQ
Is a FINRA license required for all roles in the finance industry?
No, a FINRA license is not required for all roles in the finance industry. The requirements for obtaining a FINRA license will vary depending on the job role.
Do I need to obtain a FINRA license before I apply for finance jobs?
No, you do not need to obtain a FINRA license before you apply for finance jobs. Some employers may require you to have a FINRA license before you begin your position, but others may offer training and support to help you obtain your license after you are hired.