Roles on the
Trading Floor

Salespeople have to convince their clients to trade, (either "buy" or "sell" a product), using the data and information provided by the traders and equity researchers. They offer solutions and different ideas to their client to keep them with the bank. The job involves being able to communicate and maintain strong relationships with clients of the bank. Better salespeople will perhaps build stronger relationships through arranging dinners or being more empathetic.

Traders provide the prices to the client and execute orders, managing risk at the same time. They are the market-makers. Some traders also operate on behalf of the bank, trading with the bank's assets.

Equity research analysts conduct research into public companies and format their findings into reports which the bank may sell to investors or use as guidance for their own clients. The analysts relay information onto the traders and salespeople on whether their clients should consider buying, selling or holding a stock.