Working As An Investment Advisor
Feb 25
In 2006, there were 320,000 available investment advisor career opportunities in the U.S., according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. More than half of these jobs were in securities, commodities and financial investments. Additionally, 1 in 5 people worked at commercial banks, credit unions and savings institutions; and 1 in 6 were self-employed independent financial advisors. Although these jobs can be found anywhere in the country, 1 in 10 jobs were based in New York City, on or near Wall Street. Before getting their jobs, most obtained their bachelor’s degree in business, economics, finance or accounting and interned first.
Here is an idea of a typical day for investment advisors. They will begin work around 8:30 am, which entails spending some time checking voicemail, emails and returning phone calls. Online, they will review closed loan and mortgage rates and consider a few possible solicitations. At 9:30, they’ll be on their second cup of coffee as the first client steps in. The customer’s portfolio will be reviewed and the client will be given stock information, financial guidance and loan repayment advice. An hour later, they’ll enter information into the customer contact system. Lunch is at 12:30 and at 1:30 there is a meeting with another customer who is looking at maximizing retirement contributions. At 2:15, they’ll set up more appointments from the marketing department’s lead list and follow up on mortgages. At 3:45, another client wants to do something with the hundreds of thousands sitting in his checking account. At 4:30, a meeting with management to discuss the day’s transactions and prepare for tomorrow’s customers. It’s all in a day’s work for a financial advisor.
The work environment for the typical investment advisor may consist of a traditional 40-hour week but it could run over. Evening and weekend work is not uncommon, since many clients work during the day. A number of advisory professionals work in call centers at discount brokerage firms, but some individuals also work in banks. Sales, trading and corporate investment banking advisory jobs often require longer hours, more stress and traveling opportunities. Sales and trading floors can get pretty intense, with people yelling and screaming all over the place (as you’ve probably seen on Fox, CNN or MSNBC). While becoming a certified financial advisor can be stressful, it can also be very rewarding.
Rene Lacape is a well trained insurance broker. He has been handling many kinds of insurances for the past many years. He still does well in his chosen field and is sure to help more people who will need his expert advice. Contact him now.