I knew about Abacus for a while, having done my homework on the field of fee-only financial planning firms nationwide. I knew that Abacus has 50% female advisors (when industry average is 23%), I knew that Abacus is a B Corp (look it up) and has been one since the concept began. I knew that Abacus walks the talk in terms of values, charitable giving and impact investing. I knew that Abacus has amazing employee benefits (maternity/paternity leave, time off, etc.). I knew that Abacus actually does care about centering client relationships and being rooted in real financial planning. I knew that an opportunity to work as an 'apprentice' (Associate) in this field - in an actually structured path - is incredibly rare. At every turn throughout the interview process, the Abacus staff was friendly, warm and professional, and not afraid to show their unique personality.
The interview process: A structured, multi-step process that took place over 3-ish months (and two coasts). The first step was a 30 minute call with HR, where the overall process was clearly laid out. The second step was an exercise in showing if you have basic listening and writing skills. Then came a 60 minute video call broken into two segments with 2 interviewers on each half of the call. Next was an in -person meeting/interview with the hiring office, and finally an in-person meeting with headquarters. Since I was briefed on all the steps on the front end, I was prepared and aware of where I was in the process at all times.
