What young women need to know before choosing a career in financial advice

Author: Tshegofatso Tlhabanelo, Assistant Adviser at PSG Insure

As South Africa celebrates Women’s Month, many young women are reflecting on their future and considering the careers they would like to pursue.

While certain professions often dominate the conversation, financial advice is frequently overlooked, largely because it is still perceived as a career centred on numbers, products and sales.

When I first entered the industry through the PSG Adviser Development Programme, I quickly realised that financial advice is about far more than policies and paperwork. In reality, it is a people-centred profession built on trust, relationships and helping others make informed decisions about their financial wellbeing.

For young women who are looking for a career that combines purpose, personal growth and professional opportunity, it can be a rewarding path worth exploring.

More than just numbers

At its core, an insurance adviser helps individuals and businesses identify what matters most to them and ensures those important assets are protected through suitable insurance solutions. This means understanding each client’s unique needs, helping them manage risk and preparing them for unexpected events.

Beyond policies and paperwork, advisers play an important role in supporting clients through some of life’s most challenging moments, providing guidance, reassurance and practical solutions when they need them most.

For many advisers, that ability to make a positive difference is one of the most rewarding aspects of the profession. Knowing that you have helped a family recover from a financial loss or assisted a business in protecting what it has worked hard to build can provide a strong sense of purpose and fulfilment. 

There are also growing opportunities for women in the financial services industry. Women often bring qualities such as empathy, adaptability, attention to detail and strong communication skills, which are valuable when understanding clients’ needs and recommending appropriate insurance solutions. 

Creating pathways into the profession

For young women considering a career in financial advice, one of the biggest questions is often where to start. The transition from studying to professional practice can feel daunting, particularly in an industry where knowledge, credibility and experience are highly valued.

Programmes such as PSG’s Adviser Development Programme (ADP) are designed to help bridge that gap. The programme provides aspiring advisers with an opportunity to gain practical workplace experience while developing the technical knowledge and professional skills required to build a successful career in financial advice.

Participants benefit from structured training and development, mentorship, guidance from experienced advisers and exposure to real-world client interactions.

The programme also includes initiatives aimed at developing essential soft skills such as emotional intelligence, communication, resilience and professionalism, all of which are critical for long-term success in the profession.

As someone who joined the programme in 2024, I have seen first-hand how valuable this type of support can be. Working alongside experienced advisers, gaining practical industry exposure and developing both technical and interpersonal skills have all helped me build confidence and establish a strong foundation for my career.

Building confidence and credibility

While a career in financial advice offers numerous opportunities, it is not without challenges. One of the most common obstacles young professionals face is building confidence and earning clients’ trust early in their careers. Many aspiring advisers worry that their age or limited experience may affect how they are perceived.

The reality is that confidence develops through learning, practical experience and a willingness to keep growing. One of the biggest lessons I have learnt is that you do not have to have all the answers from day one.

Confidence is built by asking questions, gaining experience and being open to learning from those around you. The financial services industry is constantly evolving, which is why resilience, curiosity and a commitment to continuous learning are essential for long-term success.

Building credibility is equally important. Trust is not established overnight, but rather through consistent actions and professional conduct. Young advisers can strengthen client relationships by taking the time to listen carefully, understanding each client’s circumstances, delivering on commitments and maintaining high standards of integrity.

Clients are more likely to place their trust in advisers who demonstrate genuine care, professionalism and a commitment to helping them achieve their goals. 

Relationships are your greatest asset

For young women entering the profession, developing strong relationships should be viewed as a long-term investment. Every conversation, client interaction and learning opportunity contributes to building a reputation for reliability and expertise. Over time, these relationships become the foundation of a successful advisory career.

The ability to connect with people, understand their concerns and help them navigate important financial decisions is often what distinguishes a good adviser from a great one. Technical knowledge is essential, but meaningful relationships are what build lasting trust and client loyalty.

The future needs more women advisers

Financial advice offers far more than a job. It provides an opportunity to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives while building a rewarding and dynamic career. For young women considering their future options, it is a profession that combines purpose, continuous learning and lasting relationships.

Most importantly, avoid waiting until you feel completely ready before taking the first step. Every successful adviser was once a beginner. Be curious, ask questions and embrace every opportunity to learn and grow.

Don’t let your age or lack of experience make you doubt yourself. Believe in the value you bring, because confidence comes with experience. The financial services industry needs more young women who are bold enough to take up space, use their voices and make a lasting impact.

Affiliates of the PSG Financial Services Group, a licensed controlling company, are authorised financial services providers.