Subhankar Dasgupta is a successful financial planner and has made a name for himself with his hard work and dedication. He has been working as a financial planner for the last 10 years. The Kolkata Mail correspondent Priyanka Dutta caught up with Subhankar Dasgupta in an exclusive conversation. Excerpts…

How did you develop the passion to become a financial planner?

Subhankar Dasgupta-I first started my career working in a bank. After some years I realized that the bank staff was more focused on selling the products of the bank and earning a good commission rather than thinking about the well-being of their clients. It is then that I started financial planning. Financial planners take into consideration the needs of the clients and then suggest financial plans for them accordingly.

You work with different kinds of clients. What differences do you find between corporate and the other clients?

Subhankar Dasgupta- In the case of corporate clients, you get complete data. You sit with their accountants and other staff. You get all the details very easily. In the case of retail clients, the client might have a different goal than the financial planner. Hence it is more difficult to make a plan for them than the corporate clients.

You have been working as a financial planner for 10 years. What changes did you notice in the profession in the last few years?

Subhankar Dasgupta- The most important change that I have noticed is the mindset change of the people after the global pandemic. The mindset was different prior to the pandemic. People have not become tech-savvy and more aware than before. This is good. If you explain about some investment, they will Google it and then think of doing the investment. This kind of attitude is good as they know more about what they are getting into.

You have been awarded many awards over the past few years. Does it increase pressure or do you feel motivated to do good work?

Subhankar Dasgupta- No, I do not feel any pressure. I believe that every pressure is an opportunity for me. Motivation is there as your work is recognized. There is pressure for doing good work. Your responsibility increases as more people know you. You have to work diligently to satisfy the clients.

What advice will you give to youngsters who want to make a career in this field?

Subhankar Dasgupta- Firstly after graduation, complete your CFP. Without it, you will not know the parameters or the calculations needed for financial planning. If you have time, you can do CFA. That is the highest degree in this profession. It also increases the chances to get lucrative jobs. Apart from this, you must be positive and dedicated. One must be aware of the financial products and confidently pitch them before the clients.