On International Women’s Day, multi-award-winning Financial Planning Partners, Furnley House is inspired to shed light on how it is bucking the trend in financial services. It’s no secret that the industry is typically male dominated; however, we are happy to be breaking down barriers with 18 women working across our business in roles at every level and across all departments.
We sat down with two of our Independent Financial Advisers Magdalena McLaughlin and Aimee Hogg who shared their inspirations along with advice for women eager to enter the finance industry.
Financial planning is a crucial aspect of personal and professional life, yet for many women, entering this field can be daunting. In an industry traditionally dominated by men, female financial planners often face unique challenges. However, as the demand for financial planning services grows and awareness of gender disparities increases, there's an opportunity to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for women in finance.
One such inspiring reflection comes from Aimee who shared her journey into finance "Growing up surrounded by strong female role models who ran their own businesses, I always knew I wanted to be like them. The concept of number, money and investments fascinated me from an early age. I was inspired by the idea of overcoming opinions and doubts to achieve my goals, and now as a financial adviser, I find it rewarding to help others with their finances". Her journey highlights the importance of having female role models and the impact they can have on shaping career aspirations.
So, you might be wondering, how exactly does it feel to be a female financial adviser? Magdalena emphasises, that “it is extremely rewarding to be part of a new generation of financial planners, and to be able to change the perception of what a financial adviser is.”
If you are eager to enter the industry, then these not let any opinions or doubts get in your way of achieving your goals and that being a financial adviser is a very rewarding job”. Two key skills that Aimee highlighted as part of being an adviser is being able to multitask whilst remaining empathetic, which is what women thrive at! Magda stresses the importance of having a clear goal, aligning this with a plan and making sure that you follow it through!
In the journey towards gender equality in financial planning, women are forging ahead with determination and resilience. By leveraging their skills, expertise, and support networks, women can overcome barriers, challenge stereotypes, and thrive in financial planning careers. As the industry continues to evolve, embracing gender diversity and empowering women will not only benefit individuals but also strengthen the profession, leading to a more inclusive and prosperous future for all.
