Q: Describe your role within the firm.
A: I review the appropriateness of trade corrections submitted by our Financial Advisors and determine whether the trades are approved or rejected. I also review fund guidelines to ensure that our systems are set up in accordance with their policies. Q: Describe how your division contributes to the firm's success.
A: Our division helps improve processes in order to increase efficiencies and productivity to help the firm achieve healthy growth. 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 August of 2002, have been in the current position for two years. Q: What did you do prior to joining Edward Jones?
A: I worked at Charles Schwab as a client service representative Q: Describe the culture at Edward Jones and how it’s different from your previous job. What is unique?
A: Edward Jones still has the feel of a small company even though it has grown exponentially in the past three years. When I began working here, I knew just about everyone in the building by first name. But with the expansion of the company, I have not been able to keep up with all of the new hire associates. Despite the growth in Tempe, the company has managed to maintain the culture which is characterized by a relaxed, fun, and friendly environment. 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: This approach is very unique to Edward Jones. Associates are encouraged by their leaders to pursue their work goals, but not at the expense of one's personal life. Work hours and scheduling remain flexible; often working around associate's personal schedule such as dropping off a child at daycare, or working an early schedule so the associate can attend night school. Q: What does the firm being a partnership mean to you?
A: Being a partner is very rewarding because you can share directly in the profits of the firm, and experience firsthand the results of your hard work. This helps increase one's pride in working for the company, and one's loyalty to the firm. Q: Before you came to Edward Jones, what did the name mean to you? And after you came on board?
A: I opened my first brokerage account with Edward Jones when I graduated from high school. Immediately I was impressed by the one Financial Advisor office set up (translating to personalized service) and the professional and warm manner of my representative despite the fact that I came into the branch office with little money to invest. From the beginning, my impression of Edward Jones was one of trust and professionalism. Q: Articulate the spirit of volunteerism that exists at Edward Jones. How have you been involved and what was that experience like?
A: There are many philanthropic activities that Edward Jones promotes such as United Way, Tempe Cares, and the Susan Komen Race for the Cure to name a few. Volunteering for the activities is a great way to meet other associates from different departments and to help contribute to a greater cause. Q: Do you feel there are opportunities for advancement and greater income potential at Edward Jones?
A: Yes, there are many opportunities for advancement. However, it is up to the associate to take responsibility for growth and development since Edward Jones is a responsibility-based firm. Q: What qualities do you think a person needs to have to succeed in the home office environment?
A: I think a positive attitude and a willingness to learn are the necessary qualities for success in the home office. Q: How do you see your future at Edward Jones unfolding?
A: I would like to be in a leadership role in the Compliance Department, in Field Supervision in the next five years. Q: As you go through your daily activities, how do you know you’ve achieved success at Edward Jones?
A: I have advanced in my current position and have become an expert in my area by developing my skills and volunteering to take on new projects and to cross train in different areas. Q: There are very few offices at Edward Jones, with nearly all the firm's leaders located in cubicals. What does this structure mean to you?
A: Team leaders have a very "open door" policy, encouraging open communication with their superiors and partner. Q: How has the firm supported your professional growth via training opportunities?
A: I was interested in trading equities at Edward Jones and was given the opportunity to do so. My team leader encouraged me to study for the appropriate licenses and cross train with the equity department. I am now part of the SWAT (trading backup) team.
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