Raymond James & Associates Reviews

Pros

Very understanding of personal events, great additional compensation bonus, profit sharing, 401k, Employee stock purchase, etc., great environment, ample opportunities as long as you put in the necessary work and commitment.

Cons

Too Politically Correct, not impressed with certain recruiters (similar to High School Guidance Councelers), takes too long to build up vacation time

Advice to Senior Management

More vacation

Pros

Tended to stay out of the news in terms of litigation relative to larger wire houses during financial crisis

Prospects with $1.5M or more can be flown to Tampa Headquarters for VIP trip on company's dime.

Cons

At the end of the day, RJA is just another wire house focused on selling expensive products to unwary consumers

Brand recognition is virtually zero outside of Southeast

The management came from a background where acquiring clients was more important then acquiring the right clients. (The "anything that will fog a mirror" approach to client acquisition)

Pros

Senior management is committed to growing the business in a sensible manner, which has resulted in stability while other firms have blown up (Merrill Lynch, Lehman Brothers, and Bear Stearns). The firm values its associates and encourages education and job growth. The firm's culture is very special and the workplace is very positive. The chairman's substantial art collection adorns the halls of the home office, which creates a museum-like environment. There are currently 3300 positions at the home office which allows for job opportunities.

Cons

In order to complete your responsibilities you sometimes have to put in extra hours. Your job satisfaction may be tied to how good your manager is.

Advice to Senior Management

The senior leadership team is probably one of the best in the industry based on the performance of the stock, financial results, and accolades received (SmartMoney, Forbes, Fortune. Wall Street Journal). My only advice is to remain conservative in your policies as you grow the company.

Pros

good people to work with

Cons

expenses leases fun advancement opps.

Advice to Senior Management

get involved

Pros

The company offers great benefits and up to date equipment and training.

Cons

There is not a lot of room for growth, there is a lot of open favortism, it is not what you know, but who you laugh and joke with.

Pros

Good corporate structure, solid year over year returns, Not too big of a company and they offer competitive pay packages.

Cons

Could do a better Job at employee communication, but overall a great company. Nothing truly negative to say about my experience.

Pros

Support from the Home Office

Cons

Not recognized or compensated for achievements

Pros

Great benefits, excellent training overall.

Cons

Big Company and hard to know everyone.

Advice to Senior Management

DOing Well and communicate better.

Pros

Always received time off when requested.
Good benefits with 401k, Profit Sharing and ESOP.

Cons

They promote employees that aren't deserving. Management is encouraged to micro-manage. The pay could be much better given that it's the financial services industry.

Advice to Senior Management

When conducting performance appraisals, give credit where credit is due. And don't look for areas for employees to improve when the employee is doing everything right.

Pros

great benefits, good teamwork, not too much micromanaging

Cons

big company, slow to change, a bit political

Advice to Senior Management

none