How Do I Become a Stock Broker?

A stock broker's job involves a fast paced working environment where pressures are high and the risks are higher. The broker may find himself selling certain plays to their clients whose decision may yield a huge commission. Anyone can be a stock broker but not everyone can be successful in it.

In the simplest terms, a stock broker is someone who buys and sells shares or other types of securities in behalf of investors. They work with clients in three different ways. They manage an investment portfolio, provide financial advice or execute specific instructions. Depending on their client, they may do one or all of these tasks. They will work with large companies, firms or individual clients.

A day in the life of a stock broker may include reviewing investment portfolios, researching financial markets for opportunities, communicating with clients, instructing traders, and marketing his services to find more clients. If the broker is employed by a company, he/she may be assigned to a certain industry or regional market.

There are no set of specific requirements to be a stock broker but a degree in finance, business or accountancy will you give you an edge. Apart from good communication and mathematical skills, a broker also has to understand economics and politics. This is needed to be able to anticipate its effect on the financial market. All stock brokers start as a trainee and work there way up as they achieve higher levels of qualification. If they become successful, opportunities for fund management and consultancy will open up.

A stock broker's job is filled with constant pressure and stress. Your success is solely based on your performance but there are factors out of your control. Working hours are long, and requires patience and tenacity to improve. However being a stock broker can be a lucrative job. If you have good marketing skills, and intuition on how events can affect the market, then being a stock broker can be good career option.