The Elon chapter of the Financial Management Association International sponsored “Careers in Financial Services” on February 15 as part of the university’s Professional Discovery Week.
The event included four panelists who discussed various career possibilities and opportunities in financial services. The panelists included: Linda Erickson, CFP, Erickson Advisors; Jeff Blaser, CFP, CIMA, Blaser Investment Management Group, LLC; Tom McGowen, CPA, CFP, Stout, Stuart, McGowen & King, LLP; and Lou Pierce, IV, CLU, ChFC.
The panelists gave an overview of their professional history and provided advice about working in financial services. Linda Erickson advised that money is an emotional issue and companies must remember to engage in personal contact with clients. Jeff Blaser, echoed this sentiment, saying individuals must remember that money is up there in importance with other issues such as marriage, children and religion, among others.
Tom McGowen, who serves on the LSB Board of Advisors, mentioned the evolving nature of the industry. “We must make recognition of the realities of the new world, of the Internet,” he said. “Clients are not going to let you stick them in a box.”
Lou Pierce advised students to find an environment that allows them to learn as much as they can and to then use that knowledge to help people.
The event also included a question and answer session. When asked how the panelists’ business changed because of the market crisis, Erickson replied that fear is generated through a lack of information, knowledge and understanding. Her company set up an active communication process and included formalized sessions every few weeks to have coffee and talk about the state of the markets, which was able to give their clients a clearer vision of what was happening.
Blaser said that everyone always looks at things differently during a crisis, and people forget that humans are emotional animals, and that our emotions affect all decisions.
“Deciding what your beliefs are is critical to success,” said Blaser.
McGowen also stressed the importance of communication skills and that you must show people you care about them. Pierce said his company made sure to show clients they can depend on his company, and that they have the skills and tools necessary to overcome a crisis.
The panelists also provided general career advice. Erickson stressed the importance of writing skills and encouraged all students to learn how to write. Pierce advised students to seek a mentor by partnering with someone successful. Blaser said not to underestimate the importance of sales skills.
“Companies want folks who can bring in relationships, build trust and follow through,” said Blaser.
“Find what you love to do and go do it,” said Pierce. “You’ll be successful.”