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Professionalism

Build the mindset and skills to work ethically, think resourcefully, and thrive in the face of change.

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Competency Overview

This competency includes being organized, timely, adaptable, embracing optimal digital solutions and promoting integrity and accountability with continuous learning.

Organization and Time-Management

Considers how best to allocate time, energy and resources according to goals and priorities.
Ethical Practice 

Maintains personal and professional integrity, recognizing potential ethical dilemmas for taking appropriate action and promoting integrity and accountability throughout practice. 
Digital Fluency 

The ability to recognize, select, and use the appropriate digital tools and technologies optimal to achieve a particular goal or client experience and outcome.
Adaptability

Keeps an open and constructive mindset when working under stress, facing ambiguity or challenging situations and responds resourcefully to changing work and client requirements.
Continuous Learning

Creates clear sense of personal financial planning career goals and direction aligning with life goals, while pursuing continuous learning and self-development plans, activities and support.

Proficiency Levels

Foundational
  • Prioritizes tasks and uses tools to improve efficiency
  • Acts with integrity and fairness; seeks ethical guidance when needed
  • Adapts to new technologies and work environments
  • Displays curiosity and seeks feedback for growth
Intermediate
  • Identifies improvements in workflows and supports team productivity
  • Encourages open discussion of ethical concerns and models accountability
  • Helps others adopt digital tools and optimize outcomes
  • Maintains calm and resourcefulness under pressure
  • Aligns learning goals with career progression
Advanced
  • Leads by aligning values with business priorities and systems
  • Creates structures for ethical practice and professional growth
  • Implements digital strategies that improve client and team results
  • Anticipates change and builds team resilience
  • Models continuous learning and mentors others

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Your responses will help us match you with the most relevant content, so you can grow with confidence and make the most of your time in the FPA Learning Center.

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Why this Competency Matters

Clients and colleagues rely on your integrity, adaptability, and follow-through. This competency promotes ethical behavior, productivity, and lifelong learning in a constantly evolving field.

Competency Snapshot

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1. Take the Self-Assessment
Take the self-assessment to evaluate your current strengths and growth areas. Take Assessment
2. Explore Your Learning Path
Receive personalized course recommendations.
3. Advance with Confidence
Focus your time and energy where it matters most.
4. Reassess Regularly
Return to this model at least twice a year to see how your priorities shift.


Competency Home

Helpful Tools and Resources

The FPA Competency Model™

Gain a comprehensive view of the model, including all competencies, detailed sub-competencies, and associated behavioral indicators.

The FPA Competency Model™: At a Glance

View the highlights of the six competencies and their key focus areas, providing a high-level snapshot ideal for orientation, planning discussions, or quick reference.

The FPA Competency Model™: A How-to Guide

New to The FPA Competency Model™? This guide is the perfect place begin.

Courses within this Competency