From Salesperson to Financial Advisor: Blair Lukan

Blair Lukan worked in sales before switching careers to a Financial Advisor with Edward Jones. He liked the idea of running his own professional practice, while having the flexibility to accomplish activities outside of work and spending time with his family. Working with Edward Jones gives him the autonomy and empowerment that he had been missing.

“I’m a career changer. Prior to joining Edward Jones, I worked in sales. One day at my old firm I was called into a meeting to discuss compensation. I left that meeting disappointed knowing that even if I put effort into my work, ultimately I was not in control of my destiny. I started to ponder my professional future, which led me to Edward Jones.

“Further research into the firm led me to understand I could set my own destiny, I would be paid for my efforts, I would have my name on the door and be responsible for creating my business. The other major draw was that I would establish a location and stay there. The expectation at my old firm had been, in order to be promoted you had to relocate. So, in 2004 I joined Edward Jones.

“What differentiates Edward Jones? First is the flexibility. The financial advisor role allows me to accomplish a lot of activities outside of work. For instance, I opened a Business Networking International (BNI) chapter in Saskatoon that provides tremendous personal and business networking value to its members. I’m also a father of three boys who are heavily involved in football and in the many years of frequent practices and games, I can count on one hand how many of them I’ve missed.

“Second is the leadership development opportunity. Six months ago I was asked to take on a role of regional leader. Leadership training programs at Edward Jones are superb. The firm invests so much in the individual associates that want to grow. I like to call it a “human performance laboratory”. Over the years, I’ve observed that the firm recognizes and helps develop individual contributors who have the potential of becoming a leader. The firm invests training time, leadership time and a plethora of resources to develop you through a variety of programs. And now in my role as regional leader I get to develop future leaders, which I truly enjoy.

“I always wanted to be successful. I was looking for independence, ability to earn and freedom to create. But to discover this leadership development portion was a surprise. I can’t imagine working anywhere else now. I’m excited to come to work every morning.”

If you’re ready for a rewarding career as a financial advisor, you can learn more about the opportunity or find an opportunity near you to connect with a recruiter. Connect with Blair on LinkedIn.