Interview with a Financial Planner

Presented By

Lisa AtkinsMarie GonzalezJohn Williams

Mark Johnson Began in sales Current position: financial manager,

Goldman Sachs B.S. and M.S. from DePaul University Served as Regional Manger with 401(k)

plans Began in personal financing division in

1999

Typical Work Routine 7 a.m. Observes charts and stocks 9 a.m. Contacts clients 11 a.m. Drives to local gym/lunch 2 p.m. Finishes administrative tasks 3-8 p.m. Converses with clients Averages working 60 hours per week

Advantages of the Position Operates in a powerful position

affecting others Enjoys changing situations Being creative with money

Disadvantages of the Position

Being in the most regulated industry Overwhelmed with documentation Dealing with client far-fetched

expectations

Successful Skills Within the Firm

Adapting well to the field Dependent upon the individual “Work smarter, not harder”

Determining if This is the Proper Field

Retailing within the firm Operating in institutional division Having broad communication skills Have an ego

Preparing for the Position Learn from the “School of Hard Knocks” Be knowledgeable in the principles of

marketing Understand financial basics and the

“80/20” ratio

Qualifications Obtain at least a bachelor’s degree Take the CFA exam Attain necessary licenses Have additional certifications Update security licenses

Advancement Opportunities

Become an investment analyst Act as a portfolio manager Expand into a range of management

positions

Salary Range Start with a base salary Paid based on commission Bonuses within the firm

Reasons to Choose Goldman

Recognized in industry Extensive research and other resources Work schedule flexibility Unconstrained by bureaucracy

Related Firm Opportunities Look to the “Big Four” Working for smaller, related firms

Training as a Financial Planner

Discuss finance fundamentals Reviewing stock analysis Networking with potential clients Visit headquarters in Princeton, N.J.

Changes Occurring Within the Field

Increase in legislation Increased circulation of marketing

information Growth of financial divisions

Employment Outlook for College Graduates

Reduced number of openings More selective Maintain knowledge of finance Gain experience to stay competitive

Professional Associations Apply for Financial Planning Association Apply for the Certified Financial

Planning Board Participate in professional events Maintain industry contacts

Recommended Reading Material

Read New Financial Advisor and Gathering Assets Keep up to date on tax information Research-related news publications

Resumé Essentials Take advantage of opportunities to gain

experience Acquire knowledge of building client

base Become familiar with other industries

Improving Your Marketability

Network a “list of 200” Find a common ground with clients Present seminars

Advice for Students Refrain from memorizing formulas Know how to market yourself Remember: Finance is an art Value your customers

Thank you.

Questions?