Facing Adversity - Physical Commodities Trading
I didn’t become aware of this industry until it was a bit late - after graduation - in quite a non-linear way. I’ve applied to the select few grad programs (oil majors and trade shops) that I still qualified for but ended up essentially getting rejected from all of them (maybe one is still in play but unlikely at this point). Throughout all this time, I’ve been hustling on LinkedIn everyday for hours on end outside of my current job. I’ve sent countless requests / emails and have managed to speak to traders and schedulers but no leads so far even as they’ve offered to refer my resume. It’s been months so I’m starting to get discouraged but I genuinely don’t want to give up on this dream. I understand that phys trading is a long game so I’m fine putting in my dues in the BO but I just need my one shot. Outside of the programs, I have been targeting nat gas & crude scheduling, commercial operations,, real time trading, and trade analyst positions. I would love any advice as I genuinely want to try out something different.
Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some actionable steps and advice for breaking into the Physical Commodities Trading industry, especially when facing adversity:
Leverage Your Current Experience:
Expand Your Network:
Target Support Roles:
Consider Learning a New Language:
Gain Experience in Related Fields:
Stay Persistent and Positive:
Seek Mentorship:
Enhance Your Skills:
Be Open to Relocation:
Apply to a Variety of Roles:
By following these steps, you can increase your chances of breaking into the Physical Commodities Trading industry and achieving your career goals.
Sources: Q&A: I'm an Agricultural Commodities Trader, Physical Commodity Trading career: If you started over again., I have no idea what I want in life anymore. Any tips on soul searching?, Trader + Career Advice = Next Job, Physical Commodity Trading
Try to get into an ABCD or some place like The Anderson's or Scoular. If you are talented you will rise the ranks quickly. Try to get onto an ethanol or renewable diesel/feedstocks desk if you're set on energy. Start building a network and try to make the pivot when the opportunity presents itself.
I applied to all the trainee programs for ags this year - Cargill, LDF, ADM, and Bunge and did not hear back unfortunately. Still might have a shot at Bunge (going to their upcoming virtual recruitment event) so I’ll see where that goes. Scoulars outright rejected me. Appreciate the feedback!
Bump. In similar position.
Same
Same...
Reach out to ANDE's feedstock guys
I did so I’ll see where that goes. Thanks!
Tough position to be in given hiring is aimed at interns / experience people right now.
Any updates? Seems like a few of us are in the same boat.
Still looking
You mentioned you don’t mind putting your dues in at BO but all the jobs you mentioned you were targeting are closer to FO. Have you been applying to many actual back office positions, thinking more along the lines of confirms/settlements/product control. A lot of the industry is right place right time, and not saying the jobs you mentioned aren’t unattainable given your current experience, but if you are just looking for a foot in the door then there are definitely less sexy roles that provide that opportunity
In terms of BO positions, I’ve applied to settlements / contracts positions
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