Q: When did you start at Edward Jones?
A: I started with Edward Jones in March 1985. Q: What did you do prior to coming to Edward Jones?
A: I had been a stay-at-home mom for a few years. Prior to that, I worked for a wholesale florist where I handled billing and accounts receivable. Q: Describe the culture at Edward Jones.
A: Some words that come to mind are service, fairness, sharing, helping, partnership and camaraderie. Q: What is your relationship like with the home office?
A: The support from the home office is invaluable. We have so many knowledgeable people in so many fields, and the help we need is always just a wire or phone call away. Q: Would you like to share any experiences that typify what it’s like to work at Edward Jones?
A: I have so many memorable experiences with clients during the past 22 years! I have been invited to weddings, birthday parties and anniversary celebrations. So many clients have become friends over the years. Q: Describe the spirit of volunteerism at Edward Jones. How have you been involved?
A: I have had many wonderful volunteer opportunities. I have mentored and helped train several new BOAs, was BOA Regional Meeting coordinator for three years, BOA state chair for the Grassroots Task Force and have been a member of several focus group meetings in St. Louis. Q: What did you think of Edward Jones before coming on board? And now?
A: I had never heard of Edward D. Jones & Co. back then. It didn’t take long for me to realize that I was with a good company. Q: In terms of compensation, do you feel you are taken care of in terms of salary, benefits, vacation time, etc.?
A: Yes. The amount that I have accumulated in my retirement plan and the limited partnership are far greater than I ever imagined. Q: What characteristics does it take to be a successful BOA?
A: I think a successful BOA needs to be a “people person,” good with names and faces, detail-oriented and not easily frazzled when multitasking. Q: How has your job changed over the years?
A: This job has never become boring for me, even after all these years. Things are always changing, and there’s always something new to learn. I have found it to be very challenging at times but also very rewarding. Where else would I be offered limited partnership? I have been so proud to accept each offer I’ve received. Q: Describe what it’s like to work in a two-person office.
A: It depends on the two people. It can be great, or it can be a disaster. Both have to be willing to work as a team. Q: What is your relationship like with your Financial Advisor?
A: My Financial Advisor and I have a very good relationship. We respect each other’s abilities. Q: How do you help your Financial Advisor every day?
A: I try to make sure my Financial Advisor sees important e-mails, remind him of important things on his to-do list and handle as many non-transaction-related activities as possible. I also try to keep his time free for appointments. Q: How important is it that you work close to home? Has it increased your quality of life?
A: I certainly like the fact that I can work close to where I live. Yes, working for Edward Jones has definitely increased my quality of life. Q: What do you do to increase awareness among the community?
A: I’m not licensed, so I can’t market investments, but I don’t need a license to “sell” Edward Jones and my Financial Advisor. Many of my friends and family members have become clients.
|
