From teaching to financial advice - Catherine Sanderson

At face value, teaching and financial advice appear to have little overlap. However, in reality, the qualities required for success in both fields can complement each other. Sure enough, Catherine’s previous role in teaching provided her with the skills and experience she needed to thrive as a financial adviser.

First and foremost, effective communication is crucial in both teaching and financial advice. As a teacher, Catherine developed strong communication and interpersonal skills, which proved invaluable when she transitioned into her new role: “My experience as a teacher helped me not only through the Academy programme but also when helping clients to understand their finances. We all learn in such different ways.”

With her transferable skills in hand, Catherine decided to take the leap and retrain as a financial adviser with the St. James’s Place Financial Adviser Academy.

She successfully completed the programme and is now running her own financial advice business, where she can support clients in achieving their financial goals.

“I had very little work/life balance in my previous career. I’ve now got the freedom to choose my work schedule.”

Speaking to the Academy, Catherine reflects on the support she received throughout the programme and beyond: “There is a whole team of experts at St. James’s Place that can help you. Although you’re in control of your business, you feel like there’s huge support around you.”

Since joining the Academy, Catherine has never looked back. She leaves us with one final piece of advice:

“Life is too short to do one thing forever, and you can become stale if you stay in one profession. So, if you’re thinking about changing direction, be brave. Believe that you can do it. Because you can… jump in with two feet and go for it!”

Catherine’s story is part of a 6-part series showcasing success stories from those who changed careers with the Academy. See Rebecca’s story here.