One of the most interesting things about becoming an Investment Advisor is dispelling some of the "myths" of what an Investment Advisor actually is and does.

Myth #1:  "It's a Get Rich Quick Scheme"

Actually, most Investment Advisors could earn far more income their first six months at a fast-food restaurant than as an Investment Advisor in training. The second six months and more importantly the second and third years are what need to be considered. Short-term gratification is highly unusual in the brokerage business. Our most recent data states that the "median" (averages are deceptive) income in this industry is is 200k plus per year. So, if that 35k entry-level position is appealing to you because of the first six months income, a career in sales probably is not for you.

Myth #2:  "I'll Be Able to Work Banker's Hours"

It's doubtful that you will work less than 55-60 hours per week, anytime prior to your third year - if you desire to be truly successful. Anything less is not the kind of hours a business owner would be working. You have to think of being an Investment Advisor in the same way you would think of owning a small business. Business will not come after you, no matter how big the firm is or the name "over the front door". We spend most of our time going after the business. Ask any honest, competent Advisor how many half million or million dollar accounts were "walk-ins" - it just doesn't happen that way. Every successful Advisor in the industry started out by cold-calling, and even after having successfully built up their business, still cold-call from time to time. Cold-calls lead to face-to-face appointments, another area where we set ourselves apart from the rest of the crowd.

Myth #3:  "I Don't Have a Degree That Will Prepare Me For a Career in Finance"

Actually, after 19+ years in the business, working in four different metropolitan markets, and 300+ Investment Advisors, we can't definitively say that we have ever "nailed down" an educational background that that adequately prepares anyone for this position.

The only common threads that we could honestly say exist, are: a tremendous work ethic, an ego that can be coached, and a strong desire for longevity. Education helps, but mostly because it demonstrates finishing something one has started, even when the going gets tough! We can take almost anyone possessing these traits, and develop them into a well-trained Investment Advisor.

Still interested? Call Brian Murpphy @ 972-428-5000, ext. 211 or .