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What does a Registered Representative do?

Photo of Brenna Goyette
Brenna Goyette
Certified Professional Resume Writer, Career Expert

Published 3 min read

A Registered Representative is a person who is licensed by the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) to sell securities products.

Registered Representative job duties include:

  • Contact potential clients to solicit business
  • Make sales presentations to prospective clients
  • Explain the features of various securities, such as stocks, bonds, and mutual funds
  • Analyze financial information to determine the best investment options for clients
  • Prepare reports detailing client investment portfolios
  • Buy and sell securities on behalf of clients
  • Monitor changes in the marketplace that could impact clients’ investments
  • Provide advice and guidance to clients on investment strategies
  • Maintain knowledge of current economic conditions and trends

Registered Representative Job Requirements

A Registered Representative is a stockbroker who must have a Series 7 license. This license allows them to buy and sell securities on behalf of their firm's clients. They must also have a Series 63 or 66 license. These licenses allow them to sell securities in their state. Registered Representatives must have a high school diploma or equivalent. Some firms may require a college degree. They must also complete on-the-job training.

Registered Representative Skills

  • Communication
  • Persuasion
  • Negotiation
  • Cold-calling
  • Time management
  • Organization
  • Clientele development
  • Prospecting
  • Financial analysis
  • Product knowledge
  • Compliance
  • Licensing

Related: Top Registered Representative Skills: Definition and Examples

How to become a Registered Representative

In order to become a Registered Representative, there are a few steps that must be followed. First, one must obtain a Series 7 license from the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA). This license allows an individual to sell securities and give investment advice. Next, the individual must pass a background check and fingerprinting through FINRA. Finally, the individual must find a broker-dealer firm that is willing to hire him or her.

The first step in becoming a Registered Representative is to obtain a Series 7 license from the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA). The Series 7 license allows an individual to sell securities and give investment advice. In order to obtain this license, the individual must pass an exam that covers topics such as investment securities, regulations, and ethical practices.

The next step is to pass a background check and fingerprinting through FINRA. FINRA requires all Registered Representatives to have a clean criminal history in order to protect investors. The background check will also ensure that the individual is not currently involved in any legal proceedings that could jeopardize his or her registration status.

Finally, the individual must find a broker-dealer firm that is willing to hire him or her. Once hired, the firm will provide the individual with training on their specific products and services. After completing this training, the individual will be able to work with clients and help them make investment decisions.

Related: Registered Representative Resume Example

Related: Registered Representative Interview Questions (With Example Answers)

Editorial staff

Photo of Brenna Goyette, Editor

Editor

Brenna Goyette

Expert Verified

Brenna is a certified professional resume writer, career expert, and the content manager of the ResumeCat team. She has a background in corporate recruiting and human resources and has been writing resumes for over 10 years. Brenna has experience in recruiting for tech, finance, and marketing roles and has a passion for helping people find their dream jobs. She creates expert resources to help job seekers write the best resumes and cover letters, land the job, and succeed in the workplace.

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