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Smith Barney Financial Advisor program

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Oct 7, 2006 2:22 am

I have an interview with Smith Barney regarding their Financial Advisor

Associate positions. I am interested in some info about the company, its

culture and what one can expect at an interview.



I am quite impressed with them so far (just switched careers), after

attending an info session…but would like honest opinions or genral

observations…any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Oct 7, 2006 7:34 pm

I've been w/ SmBarney for 3.5 years after 5 years w/ Prudential Securities.  My office is culture is one of pure independence.  Grow and run your business as you see fit as long as it's ethical.

I product platform is very good.  Plenty of money managers, mutual funds, and annuities to choose from and a good lineup of alternative investments.  The one area that continues to disappointment me is residential mortgages.  Our rates never seem to be competitive.

I can't speak much about what to expect in an interview.  You will need to demonstrate that you have a network of people that you will be able to call on to build your business.  You will also need to be able to work your BUTT off for the first 5 years.  This is a great business, but not an easy one.

Oct 8, 2006 5:19 pm

Thanks for the info !..mrclutch.

Oct 9, 2006 1:15 pm

If you’re are starting from scratch you may want to reconsider your career choice.

Oct 10, 2006 3:03 am

Why would I reconsider ?

Oct 10, 2006 3:33 am

I think it is a great firm, great products, great platofrm. 
Creating and growing a business is up to you though, not your
firm.  You must understand that…don’t fall back on the notion
your firm will get you any success as a rookie…only you can do that.

Oct 10, 2006 10:24 pm

It is a very risky business and the odds of you suceeding from scratch are very slim.

Oct 17, 2006 9:04 pm

Isn’t that how we all started - from scratch???

Oct 17, 2006 11:30 pm

Nope.  Some people buy books, inherit books, etc.

Oct 17, 2006 11:35 pm

[quote=newrookie]Isn't that how we all started - from scratch???[/quote]

Only 95% of us 

Oct 17, 2006 11:42 pm

Well, I am coming in with deep contacts in five different streams.

Institutional investors, individuals etc…

Oct 18, 2006 12:37 am

"Deep contacts"? Highly doubtful as you are asking a message board about a firm you are looking to join.  Obviously, if you had deep contacts they would fill you in on the particulars. Pardon my being harsh but at least see it through "our eyes."

Also- be wary of thinking that individuals' who you currently know will immediately/automatically entrust you with any portion of their $.  I tell rookies this all the time; it takes (lots) of time for people to really "see" you in your new career position.  Contacts are great- just consider them gravy if they develop into anything.

Oct 18, 2006 2:45 am

Thanks for the honest insight. As it is, the comments and advice are highly

appreciated.