One of the best ways for financial service professionals to stay informed of industry news is to subscribe to financial services publications. There are many publications, including financial services books, magazine, journals and newsletters available. Unless you have the resources to subscribe and read them all, you really need to pick and choose the ones meet your needs.

Magazines, journals and books on financial services offer a variety of resources, and there's a huge selection to choose from, but many are costly. The trick is to get the most information from the fewest resources, thus saving you money and keeping you informed so you don't have to read all day. When deciding which financial books, magazines and journals to choose, remember the following:

1. Some financial services journals and magazines offer free trial subscriptions so you can better determine whether the publication is for you.

2. When subscribing to publications, find out what period your payment covers. Make sure you receive any back issues within the time period you're paying for. Some publications may just begin subscription with the current issue.

3. If possible, subscribe through a publication's website, rather than a magazine subscription site. You may receive additional tools and resources with your subscription.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Subscribe to publications on financial services and receive subscription benefits

Some publications offer additional benefits with subscriptions, such as discounted prices or a second subscription at 50 percent off. With some publications, you have the opportunity to cancel your subscription, without payment, if you're not satisfied.

I recommend: Senior Market Advisor and Bank Advisor both offer free subscriptions for qualified industry professionals. Check to see if you're eligible.

Take advantage of online financial services trade publications and articles

E-mags and web publications have come a long way. Online publications may offer advantages that include additional newsletters, blogs, and readily available back issues. Internet publications are updated regularly; and if you have any questions, many have online forums for you to access.

I recommend: Investment News features a "News & Opinions" section, as well as "Career Connection," in addition to its print magazine and online industry newsletter. Financial Planning provides a wide array of industry tools for professionals who register.

Join a club or association for free access to finance publications

If you a business, you may consider becoming a member of an association for finance service professionals. As a member, you'll receive access to free publications, as well as other informational resources. If you sign up as a business, you can extend these services to your employees as well.

I recommend: The American Financial Services Association and the International Financial Services Association are both financial services associations that offer online newsletters and white papers to members. As a member, you'll get access to additional industry tools and resources.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Check with your local library for publications. Many offer online access to financial periodicals, journals and articles you can view for free.