What traits are key for long-term success in commodity trading?
Hey,
I will graduate within a year (physics) and am based in Switzerland. I consider applying for commodity trading firms (Glencore, Trafigure) in Switzerland.
I don't know too much about the industry, but I like
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short and intense work (NOT long hours)
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results-oriented work (it works or it doesn't)
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communicating & explaining (sales roles)
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flexible work & deadlines
My grades & internships are excellent, but I get stressed EASILY if I have too much work on my plate (> 50 hrs is too much).
So I basically know that I can NOT handle vast amounts of pressure, and long hours.
I wonder if I'm overthinking and overstating the importance of resilience (compared to the traits above), or if it's really like that.
Thanks for helping me out.
Not sure how to truly answer your post question but I'll address the point below. FWIW I used to work at one of the trading houses as an analyst before moving to a trader seat (stayed in the seat for 4 years)
Yeah that's gonna be a problem. The pressure, especially at the 2 firms you mentioned, is intense for roles even outside the coveted trading spot. Room for error is low and in commodities your mistakes have real world ramifications, not as simple as trying to negotiate with a broker/counterparty for a fat fingered trade.
If you want to get into these firms and make it into a front office role you should be training yourself how to handle pressure and long hours. It's not banking hours but you will be bringing work home in the evenings and weekends.
Terrible advice, not like OP had a chance of even getting a trading seat (it's just statistics, like 1% of grads get the spot). OP, you should be aiming for middle/back office (risk, ops, scheduling, etc) where your lack of being able to handle pressure can be masked more easily. Though when things get tough, it'll show andd you'll be kicked out.
If you're a "resilient" person who can't handle pressure, you can try FAANG companies given your physics background. Quant or prop is a stretch.
Not sure why the above is terrible advice? The last thing you need is someone who cannot handle pressure and is not willing to work long hours both of which are needed in Ops.
Novel idea, try getting a job at a physics firm. Kidding aside, if you can’t handle pressure well then trading commodities may not be for you.
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