to interview at least one qualified female candidate for every open position. Kristen Kimmell, Advisor Group's executive vice president of business development, told Insider that the company's Women Forward initiative focuses on supporting and advancing women in the industry with events, networking opportunities, webinars, a podcast, and a mentorship program.
Wirick said she learned that financial planners were making deals and establishing relationships during outings or activities she wasn't interested in or didn't feel comfortable doing, including fishing trips and golf outings. To address that, Wirick picked up a golf club and organized an event for other professional women to teach them the skills and etiquette of the game.
"The goal wasn't to become a great golfer," she said."It was a way to elevate women and get them a seat at the table and be active and engaged."Changing the culture is a step in the right direction, but that doesn't account for the racial and gender disparities in the financial-planning industry.
"Awareness of the profession is key," Healy said."Women need to know this profession is about helping people — it's about relationships, it's about flexibility, and it can be a way to support your family financially."Sign up for notifications from Insider! Stay up to date with what you want to know.