"CFA® I Anticipated 2016" Put that on the Resume, Cover Letter, or Neither?

So I've nearly finished tightening up the resume, and though I have a post in the resume forum as well (would naturally love watching people tear it to shreds for my benefit), I have a question that I want to ask specifically to ER monkeys.

As I've detailed before, I'm an "old" coming from scientific research in academia and am moving to healthcare ER. These jobs want a science PhD (or MD) and varying degrees of financial experience, and I need to show how I have been working to improve my financial skillset. I already indicate that I've taken WSP courses in accounting, modeling, and valuation strategies, but I also want to demonstrate that I'm moving toward the CFA® as well. Obviously I haven't taken it yet, but want to convey that I will be taking it in December.

In cases like this, is it best to include such a statement in the resume, cover letter, or do neither since it hasn't been accomplished yet? I have leaned toward cover letter, but I don't know how many people actually read those. Those of you who have the unfortunate task of reviewing resumes, what do you think when you see statements like that?

Much thanks.

10 Comments
 

You are absolutely correct, I have not started studying yet, so thank you for preventing me from committing a terrible faux pas!

I do plan to take the exam in December, but was holding off on plunking down the money until closer to the registration deadline. I figured that if I got hired before then into a place that doesn't care about the CFA, I might regret paying that fee and then not being able to prepare properly. But as you mention, if simply paying the fee allows me to officially call myself a candidate, that could be the difference between an interview and getting dinged for lack of evidence of commitment.

Thank you, SB for you!

 
Best Response

You aren't just committing a "Faux Pas" by saying anticipated. You are violating the CFA standards and ethics. You cannot put anything regarding the CFA unless you are an active member (paying the fee or are currently signed up for an exam). If you get caught or anyone challenges you, you'd likely face some kind of suspension from CFA.

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