Employers

Financial services brokers and related workers hold approximately 442,400 jobs. The U.S. Department of Labor reports that 42 percent work for securities and commodities firms and brokerage companies. Other employers include banks, savings institutions, and credit unions. About 5 percent of financial services brokers are self employed.

Financial services brokers work all around the country. Although many employers are very small, the largest employers of financial services brokers are a few large firms that have their main offices in major cities, especially New York.

Starting Out

Many firms hire beginning sales workers and train and retain them for a probationary period to determine their talents and ability to succeed in the business. The training period lasts about six months and includes classroom instruction and on-the-job training. Applications for these beginning jobs may be made directly to the personnel offices of the various securities firms. Search the Internet for listings of securities firms. Job-search sites such as Linked.com and EFinancialCareers.com also have listings. 

Depending on their skills and ambitions, financial services brokers may advance rapidly in this field. Accomplished brokers may find that the size and number of accounts they service will increase to a point at which they no longer need to solicit new customers. Others become branch managers, research analysts, portfolio managers, investment bankers, or partners in their own firms.

Become certified in order to show employers that you have met the highest standards established by your industry.

Participate in information interviews with financial services brokers and ask them for advice on preparing for and entering the field.

Be willing to relocate. Many financial services jobs are found in large cities, especially New York.