Vantaggi
As a Financial Professional, you have a ton of freedom, both with your time as well as the type of practice you wish to build. You are primarily paid via commission, so the sky is the limit. Training is considered to be some of the best in the industry. Benefits are amazing - 401(k) match, stock purchase plans, life, health, disability insurance, etc.
Svantaggi
Sometimes having a ton of freedom can feel like no one cares until you have closed a big deal. This also harbors feelings that no one is guiding you down the right path to success. Rather they are just patting you on the back when you do something good, because they are earning a commission when you sell. When you look at the commission structure versus an independent broker, you really should be getting more guidance. The fact that you are paid via commission also has it's pitfalls when you don't get paid. Costs up-front to become an advisor can be a challenge for some when you factor in the life and health insurance exam, series 6 & 63 study material and exams, fingerprints, etc.