June 11, 2018
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As part of Citadel Securities’ trader development program, The 110, we provide an opportunity to ask questions to some of Citadel Securities’ own experienced traders from our private Office Hours Facebook group. We want to share both the questions and answers with you. This month, we covered key skills needed to become a successful trader, and provided a short list of helpful subjects to learn. Don’t forget to tune in next month when we answer more questions on a new set of topics.
What are some of the top skills that help someone succeed early in their career as a trader at a firm like Citadel Securities?
As you begin your career, it’s crucial to balance your development of technical skills, such as risk-taking, with “soft” skills, such as communicating effectively. Below, we’ve outlined four skills that our traders recommend focusing on out of the gate:
What are the subjects that, if learned, will help someone succeed early in their career as a trader?
As implied by the question, it takes the combination of skills and knowledge to succeed early on. We’re life-long learners at Citadel Securities and often discuss the subjects that someone should master at different points in their career. Here are the areas of knowledge that a couple of traders attributed their early success to:
What advice do you have for someone who is trying to switch into trading from another finance occupation after the first couple of years in their career?
The transition to trading, from another finance role, will give you a new perspective on the markets. Be prepared to inquire about the fundamental purpose and drivers of different financial markets. Stay attuned to broad market trends and what’s currently driving change in the markets.
In addition, showcase your level of resilience. We highlighted through an earlier answer that resilience is a key skill for traders. If you’re transitioning into trading, the significance of this skill is more pronounced.
Great questions this month. Keep them coming on Facebook.
Interested in learning more about The 110? Find out how you can join the next generation of elite traders through tailored programs that include coursework, trading rotations, case studies and mentorship opportunities here.
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