Securities, Commodities, and Financial Services Sales Agents
Buy and sell securities or commodities in investment and trading firms, or provide financial services to businesses and individuals. May advise customers about stocks, bonds, mutual funds, commodities, and market conditions.
Common Job Titles
- Broker
- Equity Trader
- Financial Advisor
- Financial Consultant
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey competencies for this occupation at a glance
- KnowledgeAnalyze market trends, financial data, and securities performance using Bloomberg Professional and analytical software to inform investment recommendations.Proficient
- KnowledgeEvaluate client financial portfolios and investment objectives independently assessing risk tolerance and market conditions to determine compliance with financial goals.Proficient
- MindsetIntegrate customer service principles with regulatory compliance requirements when establishing and maintaining long-term client relationships in investment sales.Proficient
- MindsetAdvocate tailored investment strategies based on individual client needs and market research through persuasive communication with prospective and existing customers.Proficient
- KnowledgeInterpret complex financial information regarding stocks, bonds, mutual funds, and commodities for diverse client audiences using clear verbal and written explanations.Proficient
- KnowledgeExecute buy and sell transactions for securities and commodities using trading platforms and alternative trading systems while adhering to regulatory standards.Proficient
- KnowledgeMonitor client account performance and market conditions continuously using CRM software and real-time data feeds to identify opportunities and risks.Proficient
- MindsetReconcile competing client priorities and market volatility when resolving conflicts and negotiating solutions under time pressure.Proficient
- KnowledgeDevelop personalized financial strategies and investment objectives by synthesizing client goals, regulatory constraints, and market forecasts.Proficient
- KnowledgeApply economic and accounting principles to client financial scenarios in consulting engagements with businesses and individual investors.Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Securities, Commodities, and Financial Services Sales Agents (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
472,300
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $47,080. 25th percentile: U.S. $51,600. 50th percentile: U.S. $78,140. 75th percentile: U.S. $129,480. 90th percentile: U.S. $215,210. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
- U.S.
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | $47,080 |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | $215,210 |
| Workers on average earn | $110,400 |
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
- Customer and Personal Service4.3/5
- Economics and Accounting3.9/5
- English Language3.8/5
- Mathematics3.7/5
- Sales and Marketing3.7/5
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
- C++
- Linux
- Microsoft Access
- Microsoft Dynamics
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Office software
- Microsoft Outlook
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Microsoft SharePoint
- Microsoft Visual Basic
- Microsoft Windows
- Microsoft Word
- Oracle Java
- Oracle PeopleSoft
- Python
- R
- SAP software
- Salesforce software
- The MathWorks MATLAB
- UNIX
Technology Skills
- ADP/Vantra VOLTS
- AIQ Systems TradingExpert Pro
- AnalyzerXL
- Aspen Graphics Technical Analysis Software
- Bloomberg Professional
- BondDesk Group Trader WorkStation
- CQG Integrated Client
- CSI Complex Systems ClientTrade
Tools & Equipment
- 10-key calculators
- Computer data input scanners
- Desktop computers
- Laptop computers
- Laser facsimile machines
- Mobile computing devices
- Multi-line telephone systems
- Notebook computers