DREAM JOB. I applied to be a part of the Raymond James Advisory Mastery Program, one of the best (if not the best) financial advisor training programs in the country. I applied online through LinkedIn and was contacted by a recruiter within 5-7 days. After a brief phone introduction (15 minutes), the recruiter scheduled a more in-depth phone interview (30min - 1 hour). Both conversations were pleasant and informative. The recruiter wanted to know why I wanted this position and the specific actions I would take to be successful. Understanding the position and career path is essential for anyone interviewing. The recruiter wants to know that you understand the challenges and that you are prepared to overcome the challenges associated with managing your own business success. Having a detailed business plan or outline of a business plan is extremely important for the interview process. During my phone interview, the recruiter helped me to elaborate on the different actions I could take to be successful. After the phone interview, the recruiter then scheduled an in-person interview with my manager in another state. The recruiter suggested that I prepaid a detailed business plan for that interview. I spent a week preparing for the interview, researching the AM Program, and building a rough business plan. This preparation worked. I arrived at my interview with a 10-page (rough-draft) business plan and a PowerPoint presentation of my 30-60-90 day plan (must have). Typically, they will ask you to come back for a second and maybe third round of in-person interviews, and require you to bring a business plan (30/60/90 Day Plan). Don't count on these follow-ups; you should arrive at your first interview like it is your one-and-only chance. Near the end of my in-person interview I was given a verbal offer. This company, its culture, and the training are the best in the industry. If you're interested in building your own financial planning business and helping people with honesty and integrity, then Raymond James is a dream job. This post may sound like it's a stressful process and demanding environment but it is NOT. Every single person I have interacted with at Raymond James has been beyond kind, helpful, empathetic, and passionate. Interviewers want to know the real you. I can't speak to all recruiters, but my recruiter was willing to walk me through the process and help me every step of the way. Number One Tip: Be honest and Do your homework, understand yourself, your passion and motivation, and the career.