QFA or APA certification advice

[sparkdev]

Dear AAM members,

One of my friend who has a more than 7 years of experience in customer service in finance sector is looking for customer service and sales jobs in Ireland. She recently moved to Ireland. She is thinking to puruse Accredited Product Adviser (APA) and Qualified Finance Advisor (QFA) certification programs in Ireland to improve her chances. Does any one know where to pursue APA or QFA courses. Any general suggestions also will be highly appreciated.

 

[Introuble83]

Register with Institute of bankers / IOB
Thanks

 

[Steven Barrett]

She needs to do the QFA through the LIA. It is the industry recognised qualification to sell financial products.

It is not overly difficult and is much derided but I found it beneficial and you do learn interesting aspects about personal finances. The manuals are a good for future reference too.


Steven
www.bluewaterfp.ie

 

[sparkdev]

Register with Institute of bankers / IOB
Thanks

You mean to pursue QFA or APA right?

 

[sparkdev]

She needs to do the QFA through the LIA. It is the industry recognised qualification to sell financial products.

It is not overly difficult and is much derided but I found it beneficial and you do learn interesting aspects about personal finances. The manuals are a good for future reference too.


Steven

Is it same as IOB or is it better?

 

[Gordon Gekko]

As I understand it, you can do the QFA through the Institute of Bankers (IOB) or through the Life Insurance Association (LIA), but it’s the same qualification.

 

[MrEarl]

Gordon is correct.

In reality, those working in Banking tend to go for the Institute of Banking, while those working in Insurance go through the LIA.

 

[sparkdev]

Thanks for all the helpful replies. My friend registered with IOB