We sat down with Stacey Serna-Beecher from Charles Schwab to pick her brain on the state of the financial services industry. Where are we now? Where are we headed? Who will lead us into the future? Stacey offers her insights on some of the burning questions facing the industry.

Stacy spoke at the recent Diversitas symposium, which Charles Schwab sponsored. The symposium took place Wednesday, November 3^rd, 2021. The virtual event dove into the future of the industry and opportunities for young professionals looking to succeed in financial services. We have published recordings from the symposium which you can access for free on our website.

Tell us about the work you do to increase diversity and inclusion in financial services. Have you/your firm launched any initiatives to bring more diverse talent to the industry?

Charles Schwab continues to focus on diversity in several ways; to name a few – our partnerships with schools and business groups, our RIA Talent Advantage Student Scholarship, and our ongoing commitment to financial literacy and community service in our locations.

What are the major opportunities you see for young professionals entering the industry?

From my work with early talent individuals and projects – three things stand out:

• Become comfortable with change and learn how to work in an ever-changing environment
• Resilience
• The ability to identify, develop, adjust and own your individual career plan.

These are not new ideas, but something that all professionals will keep in mind throughout their career. As young professionals entering into the workforce, it’s important to reflect on these early and frequently and they build their career. As individuals reflect on experiences – it’s important to identify what was learned and how you will carry these learnings forward.

How do you suggest young professionals find mentors, and how should they leverage that relationship to their advantage?

First determine what is the need and then seek to find someone who can support that need. Needs change over time, therefore mentors will change and someone may need more than one mentor. Be sure to challenge yourself in seeking new opportunities as you build your career. Also, never underestimate reverse mentorship – identify what you bring to the table as well.

What did you discuss at the Symposium, and why did you feel that focus was important for attendees?

I had the honor of sitting on the “Setting Yourself Up for Success” panel, which was a great opportunity to make new connections, learn from my peers and share what I can in hopes of helping, even if in a small way, individuals who are just beginning their career. It’s my way of paying forward what I can based on those that have helped me in my career.