What do professional designations for financial advisors mean to you?

"Education is one of the prime elements I look for in any walk of life. I know there are exceptions. I know Bill Gates didn't get a college degree. There's always outliers, but even with that said, I want to know that someone has taken their career seriously and has gone out and gotten the necessary credentials that they need.
- Jerry L., 62, Memphis, Tenn.

"I definitely want an advisor to have his licenses and designations in order. I would take it a step further, though, and say that while the designation is a good thing, it's not the be-all end-all for me. I want to look the person in the eye and make sure the person measures up to what their education says."
- Stan L., 63, Denver, Colo.

"It means they take their business seriously. When I work with a professional, whether that person's in the law or medical fields or some form of financial services, I want to know they are up to date. I want to have that sense of relief with them."
- Barry R., 71, Birmingham, Ala.