Q: Describe your role within the firm.
A: I am responsible for managing the Service department which provides associates and customers across Canada with solutions to any sales or service related questions/problems. Q: Describe how your division contributes to the firm's success.
A: Our division is a bridge between the field and the headquarters. We disseminate information and answer key how/when/what/where/why questions. Q: What year did you start at Edward Jones? What year did you start in your current position?
A: I started working at Edward Jones in 1996 and have been a department leader since 2002. Q: What did you do prior to joining Edward Jones?
A: Prior to Edward Jones I was the office manager for a dental office responsible for appointment scheduling, office administration, accounts receivable and payable and marketing. Q: Are there any memorable experiences you'd like to share that encapsulate or typify what it’s like to work for Edward Jones?
A: I will always remember going out to observe how a Financial Advisor and Branch Office Administrator (BOA) work and finding out very quickly that everyone here does whatever it takes. My first day at their branch, I helped put together a book shelf needed to store their marketing/sales literature. You never know what you're going to get involved with – and the nice thing is that people here care – I think that's the type of person we attract. Q: Describe the culture at Edward Jones and how it’s different from your previous job. What is unique?
A: Since I started, not one day has been the same as another – and that's the best part. I love working here because I always get a chance to contribute in a new way – depending on what's going on and what needs to be done. Responsibility Based Management is our foundation and what that means to me is that we have responsibilities that are defined, but how we get there is for us to determine based on the situation and need, which in my view helps us be more effective, provides opportunities to learn and makes the work fun and exciting. Q: One area Edward Jones prides itself is enabling our associates to maintain a strong work-life balance. How does this approach impact you?
A: I'm currently working part-time which I was able to do during maternity leave for both my kids. There is an atmosphere of support for the individual no matter what the situation. Q: What does the firm being a partnership mean to you?
A: It means that I am that much more committed to doing what is right and doing it right the first time, which will translate to a satisfied client and lead to referrals and continued growth, meaning success for the firm. Q: Before you came to Edward Jones, what did the name mean to you? And after you came on board?
A: I didn't know anything about the firm. Now the name stands for the firm built by one man who believed in doing what's right for the client no matter what the client was worth, which hasn't and won't change. Q: Articulate the spirit of volunteerism that exists at Edward Jones. How have you been involved and what was that experience like?
A: United Way is an organization we support. I served as the Campaign Chair for the Canadian Headquarters campaign in 2005. I worked with many people who were willing to put in extra effort and time and creativity to help others; it didn't feel much different from how we all feel about our regular work. Q: Do you feel there are opportunities for advancement and greater income potential at Edward Jones?
A: I feel that the partnership structure provides the opportunity for anyone, at any level, to own and share in the business, and that opportunity grows as your responsibilities and contribution does. Q: Do you feel you are rewarded for taking initiative and “going the extra mile” at Edward Jones?
A: I feel that initiative and extra efforts are rewarded within the guidelines to ensure fairness. Q: What qualities do you think a person needs to have to succeed in the home office environment?
A: I think the person needs to be down to earth, positive, open to change and not be afraid of any type of work. Q: How do you see your future at Edward Jones unfolding?
A: I look forward to managing growth and change, and to learning from people around me. There is plenty of work to do and there is a lot of incentive to do things right the first time to help meet the needs of our clients. It's exciting to look ahead and see what more we could be doing as a firm, and as individual contributors. Q: As you go through your daily activities, how do you know you've achieved success at Edward Jones?
A: I know I've achieved success when we work together to solve problems, when branch and client feedback indicates that we're meeting their needs and I see fewer complaints coming in to our area. Q: There are very few offices at Edward Jones, with nearly all the firm's leaders located in cubicles. What does this structure mean to you?
A: What it means is a more informal atmosphere which helps people feel connected and involved. Q: How has the firm supported your professional growth via training opportunities?
A: I have had the opportunity to attend a variety of unique management training courses and had great support while doing an MBA on a part-time basis. Q: Describe the training you received when you started.
A: I was sent for new associate orientation to St. Louis, and since then have been invited to attend many different training classes.
|
