Should I make the move!!!Hello, I really need some advice. I have been in the mortgage industry since I graduated from college (6+yrs). Most all of my experience is related to Secondary Marketing with some of that experience being in sales. I am now a fixed income analyst for a mortgage company and I am BORED as can be!! My job is not challenging and I have almost no human interaction... just me and my trustie spreadsheets. I am a person who really enjoys networking and meeting new people. I have a passion for the world of investments and my degree was in Financial Planning and Services. I have an Aunt in a different city who works for Merrill Lynch as an Advisor. She has encouraged me to consider coming to work for that firm. I would really like to hear anyone's thought's or suggestions regarding my problem... especially if you have worked for Merrill or any other firm like Merrill. Kind regards, -C-
I cannot offer a perspective on that firm specifically. I think the first question is this: Can you be successful in this kind of role, taking into account learning, payment structure, the basic nature of having to carve out and build your own book of business, the uncertainty (except on yourself) etc. I think it is a great career path for people with the self-discipline, drive, people skills, consultative selling abilities, and abilities in investments. In fact, over time, you can become very wealthy in that business. And, it is, first and foremost, a people business. So that is question one. Then, is Merrill the best place for you? I know WetFeet.com does company profiles from an employment perspective. A little more MBA related, but check them out. Also, Vault.com. One thing to remember is that it is the kind of career choice that pays dividends only after you have paid your dues. You have to stick with it and build for the long haul. And if you do decide to go for it, then look to the world of training and professional development that exists. It is a big world that you would be entering into, with the path of success laid out by many wise people. If you can cut your learning curve down, you should do so. What do you think? Ian Christie Career Changers Coach Ian, Thank you for your very insightful response. I think you pretty much hit the nail on the head. I will be sure to visit the websites you mentioned. I am still undecided but I have a meeting set up for Monday with a person who is fairly new to Merrill and I believe he will give me some honest feedback on his experience there. I am also applying for other jobs in Fixed Income Sales and Commercial Lending. I'm trying to make a jump to a sales career that I would enjoy and thrive in financially. I have some sales experience and I don't want to limit my income by having a salary only job. I would also like some flexibility in my schedule. I really enjoy networking, developing new relationships and I would like to utilize this skill that I enjoy to get ahead in a career. The "kicker" or tough part is that I really need to find a job that pays a decent base salary... at least for a year or two. If you have anymore advice, please send it my way. Kind regards, -C-
C, you are asking the right questions. Keep at it. I don't know about the base salary. Look into it. Ultimately, if this is the right path for you, you will need to decide how much risk you are willing to take on in order to get started. Good luck! Ian Christie Career Changers Coach | |
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