3 Ways to Thrive as a Mid-Career Advisor

Taking action now fosters a collaborative environment that drives success and innovation.

2. Prioritize Professional Growth

Shared values around education and credentialing strengthen team cohesion and professionalism. When team members possess similar qualifications, communication becomes more effective, and the learning curve is minimized.

For instance, certifications such as the Certified Financial Planner credential create a positive culture by providing a standardized knowledge base, fostering mutual understanding and enhancing the quality of client strategies. As more women are earning CFP certifications — the number of women attaining the credential grew by 13.9% between 2021 and 2024, according to CFP Board data — they offer diverse skill sets to help firms grow their book of business and stay relevant in changing times.

Cultivating a culture that supports ongoing education and work-life balance is vital. By integrating professional development into daily workflows, firms can encourage continuous learning while preventing burnout. Although certifications are critical, there is no substitute for experience. Advisors with years of hands-on practice bring insights that can match or even surpass the value of formal credentials.

3. Take the ‘Work’ out of Networking

As mid-career advisors shift into leadership roles, networking becomes an indispensable tool for building influence and expanding their teams. Long-standing contacts, including mentors from previous professional lives, can be invaluable resources for referrals. Recruiting team members with complementary strengths, such as expertise in tax planning or estate analysis, enriches the team’s overall capabilities.

Community involvement is another effective avenue for building networks and strengthening team dynamics. Advisors who serve on boards or participate in local events often cultivate deeper bonds with colleagues and community members, reinforcing their firm’s presence and impact.

Using broker-dealer resources is another straightforward yet impactful networking strategy. Advisors should evaluate their broker-dealer relationships, particularly regarding access to succession planning support or collaboration opportunities with other advisors. Direct access to decision-makers and knowledgeable assistance at broker-dealers contributes to a more positive and productive work environment.

Over the past two decades, mid-career advisors have weathered a rollercoaster ride, from the 2008 financial crisis to a tech-driven bull market and a global pandemic. With those years behind us, we know too well our job has its challenges, from dealing with market downturns to supporting clients through personal losses.

Choosing a well-rounded team strategy that works for all encourages a culture of respect and initiative that prioritizes education and community involvement. Incorporating these measures can go a long way to opening doors to growth and expansion as advisors address the challenges and opportunities of the next decade.

Chris Howard is the managing director at Community Financial Advisors of Stifel Independent Advisors, an independent broker-dealer providing financial advisors with a platform of products and services.