Can someone tell me the best way to get a job as a stock broker/financial advisor, stock analyst, or related job at a brokerage firm with out a college degree. I am pretty knowledgeable in this industry, but everytime I apply to a firm, they always want to see a college education background. I have sales experience and have been following the markets daily for about 7 years, and am willing to relocate if a position is worth it for me. Thanks in advance.
If you are persistent you may find a job with a smaller firm. Odds of finding a job with any of the name brokerages are next to zero. If you search the threads, you'll have access to all the rationale behind my statement. If you really want to work in that business, instead of banging your head against the wall, why not just go back to school? Good luck. Steve46
It's not that simple, you can't even get an interview without a college degree on your resume. It's not like you can just walk into a firm's building and go up to a supervisor and speak to them about an opening, especially the way some of the security is at these buildings.
I was a broker at two of the largest firms(MWD&MER) in the country. I do hold a degree from a good college and there were a few brokers who did not have degrees. Think from a branch manager's point of view. What are they motivated by? What do broker's do? If you can figure that out you can land a job. Especially in this market.
do you have a sales background/record/history? if you can bring in money for the firm- big money, you will get hired. sell, sell, sell.......
While it is true that once you are hired, your primary purpose is to be a sales person, it is also true that firms look for college grads. What I'd recommend is that you write a very compelling cover letter to accompany your resume. Focus on your 7 years of experience and your sales abilities. Show them why you KNOW you can do the job despite not having a college education. Be extremely confident without being egotistical.
doug456, I agree with steve in that a college education might not be a bad idea if you wish to pursue this occupation. With the standards of advisors today requiring a CFP credential (Certified Financial Planner) at a minimum, which requires a bachelors degree, this field is getting narrow for those who only have a high school diploma. Stockbrokers, Insurance Agents, Financial Advisors, Attorneys, etc.. are earning this credential to exhibit a level of competence and sophistication in financial matters. The following link is what the CFP Requires for certification: http://www.cfp.net/become/education.asp#top Do you have significant knowledge in the following areas? Investment Analysis Portfolio Management Taxes Estate Planning Insurance Your competition does! If you do have the required expertise , maybe you could open up your own business through a B/D such as Quest. (Do a search) An RFC (Registered Financial Consultant) credential does not require a college degree. It can be obtained through online study at Kaplan College. An EA Enrolled Agent is a federally licensed tax professional that is authorized to represent taxpayers before the IRS. Only EA's attorneys, and CPA's may represent taxpayers before the IRS. A college degree is not required. Just a thought. I have seen individuals who are registered with a broker/dealer who are also EA's. Just an idea. Maybe some conflicts here- be sure to check with your B/D. As far as watching the markets for 7 years, I'm not sure what that means or if that qualifies you for this line of work. Good Luck!!! Best Regards, Dave Scott