Empowering Others: How One Financial Advisor Built a Career of Service

Shandre Harasty’s mother used to say, “A leader is a ladder that others can climb.” Harasty has embraced these words throughout her sixteen-year career as a financial advisor and mentor at Edward Jones. 

Harasty was initially drawn to the firm’s long-standing reputation as a financial leader and its culture, which balances autonomy with robust organizational support. Over a decade and a half later, she remains impressed by the firm’s collaborative environment. “The supportive culture is genuine and sincere, and it’s why I’m here,” she explains. 

Beyond the positive workplace culture, Harasty’s dedication to her career is fueled by the difference she makes in the lives of her clients and colleagues. As a financial advisor, Harasty helps clients identify, achieve, and follow through on their long-term goals. As a regional leader, her impact extends beyond client interactions, as she offers career guidance and growth opportunities for team members in client support roles. 

When asked what she’d like to share with prospective candidates considering a position at Edward Jones, she says, “Here, you will build lifelong trusted friendships with your colleagues, impact your community in ways you only dreamt were possible, and impact your clients’ lives in a way that leaves you feeling permanently fulfilled.” 

Here, we spoke with Harasty to learn more about why her work gives her a sense of purpose and the positive impact the firm’s culture of partnership has had on her career. 

Please tell us a little more about your work at Edward Jones. What are you responsible for in your current role?

I’m responsible for leading a branch team. Together, we serve our clients, who are individuals and business owners, as well as our community at large. Additionally, I serve on the leadership team, supporting the branch teams to help improve their client service and develop future leaders at our firm.

What attracted you to work at Edward Jones, and how did you know it would be a good fit?

I was attracted by the autonomy Edward Jones provided, which would allow me to work independently and ethically build my practice. I appreciate that I’m given incredible support to help me succeed throughout my journey here.

I was also attracted by the training and support the firm provides. Edward Jones has never changed names, representing longevity, consistency, and long-term trust. Edward Jones has a culture of partnership that encourages a healthy relationship with work through the incredible support of our colleagues and the firm alike.

What are you working on right now that excites or inspires you?

I’m currently evolving my practice to offer our clients an increasingly comprehensive team-based approach and am excited about the career progression opportunities for my client support team members. One of my team members recently entered the associate financial advisor role, and a second team member has moved on to become a financial advisor within my branch. Not only am I impacting the lives of our clients, but I’m also inspired by the multitude of opportunities Edward Jones offers.

What do you value most about the firm’s team culture?

I value how we encourage others to identify what’s important and then find ways to support them in their efforts to achieve that. We do this not only with our clients but also with each other. It’s a value that organically permeates throughout our organization.

What sets Edward Jones apart from other places you’ve worked?

I believe Edward Jones is unlike any other place because of its unique culture of partnership and volunteerism, which is alive and well here. We believe in supporting each other to help everyone succeed, which is why we attract and retain these types of people at our firm. 

Sponsored by Edward Jones.