How would you describe the Raymond James culture?

Raymond James has a culture like no other. Financial advisors and their clients are the top priority. Coming from a bank, it seemed like our business as financial advisors was nowhere near the top priority. This is such a refreshing experience.

Why did you decide to join the firm?

For several years prior to transitioning to Raymond James, I would ask wholesalers who covered many different firms where they would choose to do my job. Consistently, Raymond James was mentioned. I couldn’t ignore it. And now I’m proud of the firm I represent.

How have you been able to improve your business since joining Raymond James?

I’m a discretionary manager, and Raymond James has a lot more tools to help me run models efficiently. I also appreciate the access to technology, like being able to access client account information and input notes from my phone.

Since joining the firm, what has impressed you the most?

Everyone is so willing to help. Even when you call the home office, the person on the phone is committed to help you find an answer. Raymond James has an incredible library of resources – wow! After we transitioned, we went through EPIC (Elite Practice Intelligence Coaching) with our management consultant, who helped us put processes, marketing, the website, literature and social media in place. It was wonderful!

Why did you decide to join the firm?

Among all the firms I interviewed, Raymond James felt advisor- and client-centric. My business is based on maintaining and servicing my clients at a very high level. And I felt like the firm’s strong emphasis on client relationships through technology, goodwill, convenience, quality of investment choices and professional growth capabilities aligned with what I was seeking.

What are the benefits of the advisor technology platform?

Technology is very important to me. The client contact management software gives my marketing associate access to lots of data points to help maximize the number of quality touches. In conjunction with our client matrix, servicing our clients has become even easier with improved reports, meetings, mail mergers and access to client data.

How would you describe the Raymond James brand?

Raymond James gives us a good name in the community by showing support for clients. Doing what’s right for the client matters and it was made obvious right upfront. They support clients in their businesses, show care for clients’ charities, and donate to local schools and youth sports.

How does Raymond James help you better serve your clients?

Quality of investment choices was critical. I don’t manage my own portfolios, so I depend on the resources of the firm. With hundreds of quality investment choices, including some boutique firms only dedicated to Raymond James, I have found investment choices for my clients with better scope than my previous experience. From mutual funds to ETF portfolios, separately managed accounts, technical portfolios and annuity products, I have all I need to give my clients investment portfolios suited to their goals.

How has the firm supported your business growth?

I have been able to grow my credentials and knowledge in the investment industry with Raymond James. There’s plenty of motivation to excel with a big incentive to get advanced licenses. During my first year at Raymond James, I started pursuing my CFP® certification and was given over-the-top support to be successful. Within 10 months, I passed the coursework and the exam. Being a CFP® professional has provided me with numerous opportunities to help my clients in their many financial goals. Furthermore, Raymond James has ample opportunities for the continuing education required to maintain the license.

How does your experience at Raymond James compare to previous firms?

Raymond James is by far the most advisor-focused firm I’ve experienced. From the CEO to the local management team, the firm’s unique view that the advisor is their client is deeply ingrained into the culture. As a result, we are better able to serve our clients in the holistic manner they expect.

Why did you decide to join the firm?

We could have moved our business to any firm, but we thought Raymond James offered us the best platform and autonomy to run our business the way we felt was best for our clients. In addition, we had complete confidence in the leadership and integrity of senior and local management. We have not been disappointed – everything they have promised, they have delivered. As such, our business has doubled since coming to Raymond James five years ago.

How would you describe the Raymond James culture?

Raymond James’ culture is palpable. The culture is based on integrity, entrepreneurship and centering the advisor at the core of all decisions at executive and local levels. People authentically care for each other. It feels like a private family-owned business with all the resources of a large publicly traded entity.

How have you been able to improve your business since joining the firm?

Raymond James has provided us ample support for our team by adding the right number of associates to support our business and giving us access to concierge operational support. Raymond James has a culture of entrepreneurship, which allows our team to create a vision of how we want to run our distinct practice. We also appreciate the Advisor Mobile technology because it provides the information we need on our phones to conduct business. We love that Raymond James is committed to investing in technology that works!

What client feedback have you gotten about the resources you have offered?

Clients are thrilled with their experience in dealing with Raymond James, especially with our ability to customize service and communication. We have been able to provide direct access to thought leaders and the executive team when needed. Additionally, the other teams, like Investment Banking and Equity Research, are always enthusiastic to meet with clients.