Q: When did you start working for Edward Jones?
A: I started at Edward Jones in the summer of 2005. Q: What did you do prior to coming to Edward Jones?
A: Previously I had worked in human resources. The Financial Services industry was a complete and refreshing change for me. Q: Describe the culture at Edward Jones. How is it unique?
A: The culture of building relationships and striving to do what is best for the client is old fashioned and extremely rare these days. It does make us feel different as we go about our day to day business. Q: What kind of support do you get from the head office?
A: Our head office at Canary Wharf provides us with all the support we need to run a smooth office and helps us to provide clients with prompt solutions to their needs. Q: Describe the spirit of volunteerism that exists at Edward Jones.
A: Edward Jones differs from many organizations in that it has a positive proactive approach to its associates, clients and the communities in which we are based. The company willingly invests time and resources into associate development and client services. Q: What did you think of Edward Jones before joining?
A: I had not actually heard of Edward Jones before I joined as we are a developing company in the U.K. Q: What does the firm being a partnership mean to you?
A: The opportunity for limited partnership, a trimester bonus and profit sharing helps to make the compensation package attractive. Q: What characteristics does a person need to be successful as a BOA at Edward Jones?
A: To operate a successful office BOAs need to be approachable, accessible, friendly and efficient. Q. Why do you stay at Edward Jones?
A: I stay at Edward Jones because I like to work in an organization that is effectively managed from the top and where people take pride in their work and care about others around them. Q: How do you know you’ve been successful at the end of the day?
A: A measure of success for me is going home at the end of the day knowing our clients are happy with what we do and not having a huge pile of paper on my desk. Q: What is it like to work in a two-person office?
A: Our offices are traditionally two person offices. This does not suit everyone but I soon became accustomed to working alongside one other person. I like to think my Financial Adviser and I have a good working relationship. We have clearly defined roles within the branch and know exactly what to expect of each other. Team work and communication is the key to success. Q: What do you do every day to help make your Financial Advisers life easier?
A: I think one of the best ways you can help your Financial Adviser is to take ownership of the day. Planning and preparing for appointments, solving all clients queries and requests as much as possible to allow your Financial Adviser to go about his or her day with minimal interruption. Q: What kind of relationship do you have with your clients?
A: Building relationships with clients is a crucial and enjoyable part of the BOA role. Clients talk to you informally about their lives and families, and of course if you live in the community where you work you see them out and about on a regular basis. Q: What is it like to live and work in the same community?
A: I live five minutes away by car from my office. This is hugely beneficial to me as it improves family life and I am able to go home each lunchtime. Not having a daily commute is wonderful and if your office is in your home town it feels almost like working at home. Q: What role do you play in raising awareness of your branch within your community?
A: BOAs plan and organize investment seminars in the community which raises awareness of Edward Jones. Many offices become involved in local events and charity functions all of these help to build the Edward Jones brand name. Q: What was the training like when you joined Edward Jones?
A: When I first joined Edward Jones my first point of contact was BATD which is our training department at Canary Wharf. I was given a very warm welcome to Edward Jones from BATD. BOAs attend a training course at Canary Wharf and also complete training modules online. We have a training period of six months during which time regular help and support is available from your assigned mentor and by telephone from BATD. Everyone gives help gladly at Edward Jones.
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