It’s a question often asked, “If Hollywood made a movie about your life, what actor or actress would you want to play you?” For me the answer is simple, Denzel Washington. An extraordinary actor with a cool disposition both on and off camera. Denzel doesn’t know this, but we share a common bond. We both attended Fordham University in the Bronx around the same time. It was through this network that I would hear of Denzel’s acts of generosity that would go largely unnoticed in the public eye. Denzel is an inspiration for many, not only because of his achievements in acting, but more so by the way he carries himself and the example he sets in helping people during difficult times.
“At the end of the day, it’s not about what you have or even what you’ve accomplished. It’s about what you’ve done with those accomplishments. It’s about who you’ve lifted up, who you’ve made better. It’s about what you’ve given back.” – Denzel Washington
A harsh reality within the financial services industry is that many of us will experience being let go from our job at least once over the course of our career. While this a risk we’re all aware of and accept upon entering this industry, more times than not a person is surprised when it happens to them. Initial shock eventually shifts to a wide range of emotions: disbelief, anger, fear, embarrassment, to name just a few.
I’ll never claim to understand any one person’s situation when they get caught up in a RIF, or reduction in force, because each one is different. Having said that, there are commonalities, like how the immediate need for moral support Day 1 is quickly overshadowed by the need for practical advice and opportunities Day 2 and beyond.
I’ve been let go twice in my career, but I’ll never claim to understand any one person’s situation when they get caught up in a RIF, or reduction in force, because each one is different. Having said that, there are commonalities, like how the immediate need for moral support Day 1 is quickly overshadowed by the need for practical advice and opportunities Day 2 and beyond. Providing this kind of assistance is something that STA believes in and has done but we would like to do more, particularly in the areas of networking and education.
Networking events are important to everyone’s career development. For an individual who is seeking employment, however, it can mean the difference between getting that next job offer or not. Therefore, STA has created aComplimentary Conference Registration Package for 2019, which is available to professionals who are actively seeking employment in our industry. Take a moment to read more about the package below, and discuss the information with those who might benefit from it.
It’s rare that a person will find employment within a month of being let go by their former employer. Staying educated and informed on industry trends and developments is extremely important. Besides well-known news outlets and social media channels, trade associations like SIFMA, ICI, MFA and STA offer free sign-up’s to their newsletters. STA produces regular communications including monthly newsletters, Taking Stock and Lighthouse articles, Open Call Reports and Event Notices via our free STA News subscription.
Our industry is filled with good people who “lift up” others when they are down, and Denzel would be proud. Many others want to help but don’t know what to do or what to say, especially if they’ve never experienced being let go before. We hope that, through this issue of Taking Stock, we’ve provided an opportunity for you to reach out and have a conversation with that friend, family member or former colleague who needs a lift.
Thank you for your support.
Complimentary Conference Registration Packages for individuals who are in between jobs who are in between jobs
STA will offer up to ten (10) Complimentary Conference Registration Packages for our Annual Market Structure Conference, Oct. 2-4, 2019 at the JW Marriott Washington DC, to individuals who are in between jobs and actively pursuing a new opportunity within the securities industry.
Each Conference Registration Package includes:
- One (1) conference registration, with access to all program sessions and networking events onsite at the JW Marriott
- Two (2) nights accommodation for a standard room at the JW Marriott
- $500 travel voucher
Recipients will be chosen via lottery on or around Aug. 5, 2019.
Have a question? Contact STA at sta@securitytraders.org