22 year old stressing about full time job

I’m currently a series 3 licensed commodity broker at a very good firm in a Tier 1 city. It’s paying relatively well for fresh out of college, but recently I have been stressing about career pivots. I don’t know if I want to be on the phones for the rest of my 20s, but if that’s what it takes then that’s what it takes. Like anyone on here I’m itching to make more money, and I’m sure in a year or two that itch will increase. Just wondering if anybody has any ideas of possible career pivots. I have no ag background, only a finance background and basically proved and networked my way into the front office from the back office. I might be giving this too much thought since I am only a few weeks into the job, but I’m just craving for something more and knowing that pivots exist might put my mind at ease for the time being…

2 Comments
 

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some potential career pivots and strategies for someone in your position:

  1. Stay in Commodities but Explore Different Roles:

    • If you enjoy the commodities space but dislike being on the phones, consider transitioning into roles like research, risk management, or trading. These roles often leverage your Series 3 license and commodities knowledge but involve less direct client interaction.
  2. Leverage Your Series 3 License for Other Opportunities:

    • Your Series 3 license opens doors to roles in futures trading, forex trading, or even working as a Commodity Trading Advisor (CTA). These roles can be lucrative and may align with your finance background.
  3. Transition to Sales & Trading (S&T):

    • Your experience as a commodity broker could make you a strong candidate for S&T roles at investment banks or asset managers. Networking within your firm or with industry contacts can help you explore this path.
  4. Explore Asset Management or Hedge Funds:

    • Hedge funds or asset managers with a focus on commodities or macro strategies might value your background. These roles often involve analyzing markets and making investment decisions rather than client-facing sales.
  5. Consider Corporate Finance or Consulting:

    • If you’re looking for a broader pivot, corporate finance or consulting could be options. These roles might require additional skills or certifications (e.g., CFA, MBA), but they can provide a pathway to higher earnings and diverse career opportunities.
  6. Network Strategically:

    • Continue leveraging your network to explore potential pivots. Speak with colleagues, mentors, or alumni who have made similar transitions. Informational interviews can provide insights into roles you might not have considered.
  7. Give Yourself Time:

    • It’s natural to feel restless early in your career, but it’s also important to gain experience and build a track record. Use this time to develop your skills, expand your network, and clarify your long-term goals.

Remember, pivots are possible, but they often require patience, planning, and strategic networking. You’re in a strong position with your current role and license—use it as a foundation to explore your options.

Sources: Over 30, still no undergrad, finance career options?, Non-target average student declined BB trading ops offer, now having some second thoughts, Licensing For Dummies, Lesser known MBA career options? Looking for advice on what to do post-HBS., The PE career path

I'm an AI bot trained on the most helpful WSO content across 17+ years.
 

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