Career change from architecture to finance/investment management

Career change from architecture to finance/investment management?
I'm 34 w/ a MSc in architecture. Been an architect for the past 7 years, but now looking for a serious career change. I'm considering doing the CFA program to find a job in investment management, but wondering if I make any chance at all getting a good job at my age given my lack of finance/economic education and work experience so far. Any tips?
Other - Careers & Employment - 2 Answers

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1
Well... If you are just starting the CFA you can start as a financial adviser ( for experience) and 2 years later, when you finish the CFA, get a better job. But i can't see finance as an easy career to now start getting into.


2
I think it's great that you know that you want a change AND have some inspiration and direction on what you would like to do. As I'm sure you're aware, this sort of career transition will take some strategic planning and some resources. And, no, I don't think you're too old to make such a transition as long as you go into it with your eyes wide open and well-informed. You have at least 20 - 30 more years in your career! :) As a Career Coach, I always encourage my clients who are considering a career transition to do some informational interviews with folks who are in the job or field they want to go into. Many times you can connect with folks via LinkedIn, Facebook, Plaxo, etc. Even if you don't know the person, many people are willing to spend 20 - 30 minutes on the phone or at coffee to talk about themselves and their career. If you get turned down a few times after requesting informational interviews, don't be discouraged. There ARE people out there who want to help others. It's a bonus if you can find people in the accounting field who went into the field later in their career (like you would be doing). Use your friends and family network and ask them for help in finding such a person (or people) that you may be able to chat with. Reaching out on forums like this is a great start! You may find some CFAs who are answering questions that you could contact for an informational interview. If I can answer any other questions about your career transition, please contact me! -Kelly Harrington Career Coach www.kellyharrington.com