Early-career advisors prefer offices, mentorship

A survey of 100 financial planning students conducted by the FinServ Foundation and consultancy FP Transitions found a clear preference for in-office work, hands-on mentorship and predictable pay. Ninety-six percent of respondents said they want to help clients reach life goals, while 93% described mentor shadowing as “very important” or “essential.”

Students favored face-to-face work and structured early-career programs over remote or solitary roles. More than two-thirds said internships or other early-career opportunities matter, and 72.3% specifically want to shadow financial advisors. Respondents also ranked work-life balance highly alongside daily interaction with colleagues.

Survey responses showed a preference for stable compensation at the start of a career: over 80% selected a base salary as their preferred pay component, compared with 14% who prioritized equity. Nearly 39% expect to become a partner or owner within five to 10 years, and 17% anticipate starting their own advisory practice at some point.

Elise Rogers of FP Transitions, which has a subscriber list of about 57,000 and where she has worked for 17 years, observed, “A lot of people have this perception that the younger generation wants to work from home… The students are saying the opposite.” Rogers highlighted that students want firms that align with their values and provide clear career pathways.

The survey found interest in employer benefits and policies that reflect firm culture. Respondents showed preference for employers that offer specific supports such as 529 college savings plans for employees who become parents and that avoid investments that conflict with the company mission. They also indicated a desire for salary transparency and visible opportunities for professional growth.

FinServ Foundation and FP Transitions characterized the results as a message to employers: students are prepared to work in-office and invest time if firms provide mentoring and clear routes to advance. The percentage saying they want to help clients reach life goals rose to 96% from 72% a year earlier, according to the survey results.