Monster: How did you get to your current position?
Edmund C. Pan: I was a financial advisor for two years and, during my second year, I began coaching new advisors. I excelled, as did my advisors, and I was recognized for my accomplishments. I continued to work my hardest in both my role as an advisor and my role as a coach. Before a position became available as manager, I was working with colleagues and mentors to develop the skills needed to be a manager.
M: What do you do in your position?
ECP: I work with a team of financial advisors and help enable them to achieve their vision of success (for both themselves and our clients). Our advisors take a comprehensive approach to financial planning based on a long-term relationship. They get to know clients personally -- their goals and dreams -- and then provide guidance through the development and implementation of a financial plan. As a manager, I look to drive results in an advisor's business and balance that with each individual accomplishing their personal goals, all the while helping advisors do what's most appropriate for clients.
M: Bring us through your typical day.
ECP: I begin the day at 8 and check email and voice messages. Throughout a day, I receive approximately 100 emails. There is typically an office gathering in the morning, followed by classes for our newer advisors. I teach one of these classes per week. In the afternoons, I conduct one-on-ones with my advisors and talk about their tasks for the day, week, month, etc. This may also include casework, analysis, marketing, presentations, etc. In the afternoons and evenings, I join in on client meetings.
M: What have been the biggest rewards in your career?
ECP: I take joy in helping others be successful. This goes for me as an advisor working with clients and as a manager working with my team of advisors.
M: What are some of your biggest obstacles on the job?
ECP: Making sure I am keeping up with the ever-changing needs of my advisors. Everyone is different and needs a different level of leadership. I need to ensure my communication and listening abilities are up to the task of motivating and driving my team.
M: What's the best advice you could give someone looking to get into your field?
ECP: Work hard, and keep focused on what you want to accomplish. Also, success is driven by motivation and discipline. You need to make sure you have both in your life, because each has its own ups and downs. For example, if your motivation is waning, discipline will help keep you on your path to success.
M: What do you, or your company, look for when hiring people?
ECP: People who have the vision of what it takes to be successful and are willing to make the effort necessary to be successful. They have to have determination, discipline and a positive attitude.
© 2006 Ameriprise Financial, Inc. All rights reserved.
Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc., Member NASD and SIPC. Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc. is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. Ameriprise Financial cannot hire individuals into the financial advisor position who are not legally authorized to work in the U.S. or who require or will require sponsorship for employment visa status.
