Dana Hicks, CFP®
Financial Advisor, Edward Jones
PAID CONTENT
After more than two decades as an advisor at a big bank, I took a leap of faith and joined Edward Jones to take back control of my business. It wasn’t a decision I made lightly. Working in a shareholder-driven corporate environment had come with constraints that left me feeling less in charge of my practice.
Despite my experience and the value I brought to clients, I found myself tied up in meeting shifting internal targets and navigating firm priorities that didn’t always align with serving my clients in the best possible way. At Edward Jones, I’ve been able to focus entirely on my clients, build the practice I want, and be rewarded for the impact of my experience. Here’s how making the move has transformed my career, my client relationships, and my outlook on the future.
“From my first day, I was trusted to make recommendations for my clients, based on what I knew would serve them best. That kind of trust is rare, and it’s what sets Edward Jones apart.”
Taking Charge: Setting My Own Targets and Growing My Business on My Terms
At Edward Jones, my experience is genuinely valued, and my independence is fully respected. I have the freedom to set the targets and schedule that drive my practice and shape my business growth. No micromanagement or restrictive guidelines. I’m empowered to make decisions about my practice that best serve my clients and align with my vision for success. I choose the clients I serve, the relationships I prioritize, and how my book of business evolves.
”It’s liberating to have this level of control over my branch and schedule, always with a focus on achieving the best outcomes for my clients.”
I Joined a Culture of Trust, Partnership and Support – Not Internal Competition
One of the best surprises for me was Edward Jones’ partnership culture. You’re not just part of a firm, you’re part of a community of financial advisors who look out for each other and win together. We’re led by experienced industry veterans who’ve been in our shoes, understand our realities, and are committed to our success. I know I can reach out to any colleague and receive valuable support. The camaraderie is genuine, and there’s a true sense of shared purpose.
The collaboration I experience with fellow Edward Jones advisors is a breath of fresh air. There’s no internal competition over who “owns” a client, and no competitive incentives creating obstacles to helping clients. Without the pressure of meeting shareholder-driven targets, my primary focus is delivering exceptional service and building deeper, more meaningful client relationships.
“I no longer feel like I’m in a battlefield competing for referrals.”
My Commission Grid is Stable, and My Earnings Potential Uncapped – No Moving Goalposts
There’s no limit to what I can earn or how much I can grow my practice. Edward Jones is rooted in a compensation philosophy designed with the idea that those who put in the work also share in the rewards.
After years of dealing with shifting goalposts on commission and referrals, the transparency and stability of Edward Jones’ compensation model has been a game changer. With a reliable commission grid, I know exactly what to expect from my earnings. There are no surprise changes to incentive structures or caps on growth potential. If my branch thrives, so do I.
Edward Jones also offers up to three profitability bonuses each year. As a private partnership, our bonuses aren’t tied to shareholder demands but to results we, as advisors, help create.
“As a privately held partnership, our model is designed for advisors, by advisors.”
This Firm’s Momentum and Big Ambitions – A source of motivation for me
Today, Edward Jones proudly serves around190,000 Canadians and spans 660 branches with more than 860 advisors across the country. In the past six years, our assets under care have doubled to nearly $60 billion. As one of the largest independent wealth providers in the country, we have ambitious plans to help many more Canadians improve their financial wellness through comprehensive advice and planning.
“Joining a firm with this kind of growth and momentum is inspiring.”
A Growth Path Forward – For My Clients and My Career
Since joining, I’ve also discovered that my future with Edward Jones isn’t limited to my current role. Financial advisors here have opportunities to take on additional responsibilities and participate in firm leadership – which is a path I have been able to pursue. Edward Jones is structured to provide a variety of ways to grow and excel, without rigid hierarchies.
The firm provides access to innovative tools, ongoing training, and a wealth of resources to help me build and enhance my business. I’m supported by branch office administrators who know my practice and have my back, as well as head office specialists for complex client needs like estate planning and cross-border taxation. Additionally, I have access to market analysts and experts who enhance the service I can provide. My clients benefit from these resources as much as I do, and I get to work with a supportive team that understands the opportunities and challenges I face.
It was the Right Move for Me and my clients – What about You?
For me, Edward Jones is a place where my independence is respected, my experience is valued, and my effort is rewarded. The culture, compensation, and support structure are all designed to set me up – and my clients – to thrive.
If Edward Jones sounds like the right move for you, let’s talk.
Connect with me on LinkedIn or reach out to me by email: dana.hicks@edwardjones.com
