Investment Banking Sales Brokers

High School

Recommended high school classes include English, speech, marketing, psychology, business, economics, statistics, accounting, mathematics, and database management.

During college, you definitely need to work hard at your studies, but you should also use this time to expand your horizons and get to know yourself and try out new things—not just activities that are directly related to business and finance. “A diversity of experiences can make you a better candidate for whatever you decide to do after college,” advises J.P.Morgan Chase & Co. at its career Web site. “Take a leadership role in extracurricular activities. Study abroad for a semester, maybe two. Learn another language, maybe a third. Edit the school newspaper, play sports, become the campus DJ, join the French club, campaign for someone or something, volunteer, start a nonprofit, act in the school play…do what you love to do.”

Postsecondary Education

You will need at least a bachelor’s degree in business, marketing, sales, mathematics, finance, accounting, or economics from a top-tier college to work as a sales broker. Those with master’s degrees in business administration are more likely to advance to managerial positions. Recommended courses for those interested in investment banking sales, trading, and research include Introduction to Investment Banking, Derivatives, Money Markets, Fixed Income Securities, International Finance, Macroeconomic Policy and Global Capital Markets, Financial Decisions, and Financial Strategy and Tax Planning.

Other Education or Training

Sales brokers who are registered with the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (the self-regulatory arm of the investment industry) must complete continuing education (CE) classes to renew their licenses. Additionally, the Sales Management Association offers webinars, workshops, and classes that might be useful to sales brokers. Past offerings included Social Strategies for Sales Leaders and New Product Selling: What Works. The CFA Institute, Futures Industry Association, and Securities Industry and Financial Markets Association also provide CE classes, webinars, and workshops. Contact these organizations for more information.

Certification

Colleges and universities such as the University of Pittsburgh, City University of New York-Baruch College, Johns Hopkins University, and the University of Houston provide certificates in investment banking, trading, and related areas. Many other schools provide undergraduate and graduate certificates in sales and marketing. Contact colleges and universities in your area to investigate available programs.