Q: When did you start at Edward Jones?
A: I started in September 1989. Q: What did you do previously?
A: Before coming to Edward Jones, I worked at a bank. Q: Describe the culture at Edward Jones.
A: Edward Jones has a small-company feel of warmth and caring. Q: Talk a little about the support you get from the home office.
A: Anytime you need help or have a question, all you have to do is contact the home office, and they will work with you to get answers or a problem resolved. Q: Describe a memorable experience with a client that encapsulates or typifies what it’s like to work for Edward Jones.
A: I work a lot on estates, and many times I work with a surviving spouse. It’s so painful for them to understand everything. I had one who couldn’t even write a check, so I helped for a few months with paying the bills, reading the statements, etc. To me this is how we are different from other companies - by the personal touch we have with the clients - and we do become their friends and, at times, their support. Q: How does Edward Jones compare to the companies where you previously worked?
A: We truly support and care for the clients. It isn’t just business. We want to help and make things better for them. Q: Articulate the spirit of volunteerism that exists at Edward Jones.
A: I have found that so many people volunteer to help when you start out that it is amazing! I have helped by being a mentor to a newly hired BOA by performing office visits or having the BOA visit our office. Q: Before you came to Edward Jones, what did the name mean to you? And after you came on board?
A: I thought it was just for people who buy and sell investments. After I came to Edward Jones, I realized that we truly impact and make a difference in our clients’ lives. It isn’t just about numbers. It’s about helping our clients and doing what is right for them. Q: Are you happy with the way Edward Jones has taken care of you in terms of the overall compensation package, including medical benefits, vacation time, retirement planning and salary?
A: Yes! There is more to this job than the hourly wage, and you have to take that all in. We also get paid vacation, insurance, a bonus if the office qualifies, 401(k) contributions and limited partnership opportunities. If you look at the WHOLE package, Edward Jones does a great job! Q: What qualities do you think a person needs to succeed as a BOA?
A: BOAs must be able to think outside the box and be self-motivated. One of the great things about this job is that it is not the same every day, and you have to be able to think and be able to help people in any situation. Q: What keeps you at Edward Jones?
A: I like working in a small office with big-company benefits and being able to have those personal relationships with our clients. Q: What is it like to work in a small office?
A: I actually work in an office with one Financial Advisor and two other BOAs. We are extremely busy, which I like! Q: What is your relationship like with your Financial Advisor?
A: I do feel like we are partners in this office, and everyone contributes. I know if I need anything, my Financial Advisor will help in any way he can. Q: What is your relationship like with clients?
A: This is one of the best things about the job! Over the years I have come to truly care for our clients personally as well as professionally. Not only have we touched their lives, but they have touched my life. We have some truly AMAZING clients! Q: What part of that training was the most helpful?
A: My mentor visited my office, and I got to visit her office to see how she set things up. To this day if I need anything, I can call her, and I know she will be there for me! She truly went the extra mile for me.
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