Military Experience a Plus in Advisers

The top traits that appeal to Americans included discipline (77%), goal orientation (73%) and integrity (72%), according to a survey by Edward Jones. Six in ten Americans said they would work with a veteran to thank him or her for their service. 

The unemployment rate continues to drop nationwide but remains a persistent issue for veterans. Recent figures from the Bureau of Labor Statistics show an unemployment rate of 8.3% for veterans, which is even higher at 12% for those who served post-9/11. Veterans looking for viable career opportunities should consider the financial field, Edward Jones suggested.  

The company said 11% of their advisers – more than 1,300 – have previous military experience. “Since our founding, Edward Jones has recognized the transferable skills and exemplary characteristics military veterans can offer our clients,” said Jim Weddle, Edward Jones managing partner.  

A majority of survey respondents (90%) said they feel skills gained in the military are transferable to post-military careers. Slightly more than half believe those skills are specifically applicable to a career as a financial adviser. Seventy-five percent of Americans said they would be likely to work with a financial adviser who had served in the military. 

Results are based on telephone interviews of 1,006 adults (502 males and 504 females) in households in the U.S., conducted in March.