INTERVIEW WITH SAM PATTERSON PART 3

For most paraplanners that are just starting out, the professional qualifications alone meet their CPD requirements. This can be a bit of a trap as it lulls a lot of paraplanners into a false sense of security, where they think they’re getting everything they need by simply ticking that box. They don’t necessarily look for anything more.

Personally, I’ve picked up a lot more practical advice through attending CPD events, whether they’re live events, webinars, or online short courses from external providers. You don’t really learn how to apply the knowledge you’re gaining from the qualifications by taking a string of exams, that process of implementation has to come from somewhere else.

Podcasts are a really good place to start. The Real Adviser Podcast (TRAP), for example, gives a great overview of what’s going on in the sector and how others have built their careers. If you’re looking for free modules and more technical webinars, Paraplanners’ Assembly has some great content as well, not to mention your own Scottish Widows Paraplanner Hub. There really is so much quality content out there if you look around.

A lot of people, particularly those that are just starting out or are still in their first few years of paraplanning, think of networking as just a way to find bigger and better career opportunities. I cannot overstate how valuable it is, even if you’re perfectly happy in your current position and have no intention of looking for a new job, to network and share experiences with your peers. The inspiration and support that networks like the Paraplanner Club or Next Gen Planners can offer is invaluable.

I’ve personally found it extremely rewarding as well, being able to share my experience and help guide others as I’ve transitioned from mentee to mentor through the Paraplanner Club. Becoming a mentor could be the next step in your career if you decide not to become a team leader or an adviser.

I saw a post not long ago from a paraplanner who had just failed an exam and the comments were filled with recommendations for training providers and ‘why not buy this or that?’ But if you think about it as if it were a client that had a problem, you wouldn’t start by suggesting new products and further investment. You would zoom out and try to understand what they need and what’s missing. You need to treat yourself the same way and find out what works best for you. Your time is valuable, and it is a lot to balance, so learn what works best for you and what gives you the best return for your time invested.

You can start by browsing resources in your lunch time now and again, rather than scrolling general news sites or social media. Test some things out and you might find something that’s really useful.

In terms of work-life balance, everyone is different, but for me a good balance is simply not having the Sunday fear. When you’ve got it, you know it – going to bed already thinking about all those emails waiting for you the next day. Recharging and clearing your head is just as important as any other part of the job. It’s like a glass of water constantly being emptied – work-life balance is refilling the glass. The first question I like to ask is ‘how do you recharge?’ and if you can’t answer that then you needed to seriously think about it.

I’d just reiterate that everyone learns differently, everyone unwinds differently, and everyone has their own journey. Don’t be put off if you don’t match what everyone else is doing. Go out and find what works best for you and don’t be afraid to ask for help and advice along the way. The paraplanning profession is so varied and there are so many opportunities to explore.