career change

[xj4nex]

Hey guys,

I am a 24 year old female Human Resources graduate who is currently employed as a commercial services manager for a medical devices company. I really want to become a stockbroker, however I am unsure of the best way to go about this and apply for a trainee position - can anyone give me some advice on the best way to approach a company and also any tips for the most appropriate things to write in my covering letter?

would be extremely grateful for any replies.

Jane.

 

[rawrschach]

Read this

http://www.trade2win.com/boards/fir...-i-become-trainee-stockbroker.html#post435232

 

[ewilcox]

In the current environment I'd say pretty much forget about applying for a trainee position. Its a terrible time for even very experienced people to be applying for jobs in the financial services industry. I'd definitely recommend though:

1) Take some sort of qualification - CMA or IFA for example. Either would look good.
2) Read as much as possible on trading and investment, both from online sites like this and the plethora of good investment books out there. Know a position from a trade, the importance of money management and the basic options strategies backwards etc.
3) If you have any savings (< $1000 for safety's sake) consider opening a trading account and start trading. It will give you some good experience and you'll learn far more losing (or winning) your own money than anyone elses.

Best of luck.

 

[rawrschach]

In the current environment I'd say pretty much forget about applying for a trainee position. Its a terrible time for even very experienced people to be applying for jobs in the financial services industry. I'd definitely recommend though:

1) Take some sort of qualification - CMA or IFA for example. Either would look good.
2) Read as much as possible on trading and investment, both from online sites like this and the plethora of good investment books out there. Know a position from a trade, the importance of money management and the basic options strategies backwards etc.
3) If you have any savings (< $1000 for safety's sake) consider opening a trading account and start trading. It will give you some good experience and you'll learn far more losing (or winning) your own money than anyone elses.

Best of luck.

Trading and broking are two different things.

Brokers are still hiring, but the chances of being picked over a fresh graduate are slim.

 

[ewilcox]

Fair point but any decent broker (certainly one that I'd consider using) must know the basics of trading and regardless I'd still have said getting a job as a trainee with little or no experience may be a tough call at the minute.

Sorry to be negative - just trying to be honest.

 

[xj4nex]

Thanks for your replies everyone, I take it that it's pretty tough for someone like me to get into a trainee position! i'm wondering what you think to the following ad. for trainee positions with Edward Jones? I have visited their website and sent them my covering letter and CV:

Train as a Financial Adviser and Stockbroker

"At Edward Jones, we know what it takes to achieve success. Whether you’re making a completely fresh start in the financial services industry or have some previous experience, we can help you get more out of your career. That’s because when you join us, we’ll provide everything you need to gain new skills and build on any existing ones, establish a business and really achieve your goals.We’ll make sure you receive funded initial and ongoing training, and plenty of support as you study to become a Financial Adviser and Stockbroker. "

 

[ftse22]

These were actual Independent Financial Advisor jobs not Stockbroker jobs at Edward Jones. First you need to pass your Regulations and Securities exams from SII. After that a brokerage house might consider you.