Q: Describe your role within the firm. A: I work with growth leaders and regional leaders to develop a growth business plan to increase the number of Financial Advisors nationally. Q: Describe how your division contributes to the firm's success. A: Without the Sales Hiring and Recruiting department, our sales force would not increase. My department is responsible for growth by hiring Financial Advisors and therefore we increase the number of individual investors we serve; impact the number of home office and BOA opportunities available; expand the products and services we offer; and help Edward Jones to remain a partnership. 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 2005 in the Sales Hiring and Recruiting department. I began my position as region recruiting specialist in the summer of 2006. Q: What did you do prior to joining Edward Jones? A: Immediately before Edward Jones I completed post-graduate studies in communications/public relations. Prior to that program, I worked at RBC Dominion Securities as an administrative assistant to four investment advisors. 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: Last year I met all growth and regional leaders for Canada. I had the opportunity to have dinner with them and get to know them as people. It was a wonderful experience because we had representatives from all across Canada. We learned how diverse our country is and how our Financial Advisors represent those differences. Q: Describe the culture at Edward Jones and how it’s different from your previous job. What is unique? A: People really enjoy working at Edward Jones. Everyone has a very positive attitude and this lends to an encouraging environment. Q: One area Edward Jones prides itself is enabling associates to maintain a strong work-life balance. How does this approach impact you? A: Having work-life balance actually impacts me directly. In my first year at Edward Jones I was so impressed with the company that I recruited my own husband. He currently works in the home office in another department. Edward Jones is truly a family business to us. Q: What does the firm being a partnership mean to you? A: My actions have a direct impact on the firm, and I am in control of my compensation. Q: Do you feel there are opportunities for advancement and greater income potential at Edward Jones? A: In the short time I have been here I have been promoted in title, responsibilities, and income. I know more potential is within my reach as long as I am willing to work to earn it. Q: What qualities do you think a person needs to have to succeed in the home office environment? A: The home office is a strong team environment so being personable, motivated, and a team player certainly helps. Our main focus is to support our Financial Advisors and ensure their success; therefore a strong service attitude is helpful. Q: How do you see your future at Edward Jones unfolding? A: I think my future is very bright! My goal is to obtain a leadership position in the near future where I can give back and provide others the motivation and inspiration I received when I first came to Edward Jones. 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: The open office structure means I am welcome to share my ideas or address my concerns with both my team leader and director at any time. There are no barriers, physical or metaphorical, between employees and leaders. Q: How has the firm support your professional growth via training opportunities? A: My team leader encourages me to participate in courses that will help me better understand the Edward Jones culture and further develop my career.
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