I''m very nervous about starting the FGA program...

[BigToque]

I right on the edge of applying for the FGA program. I have a pretty big interest in gems and I have an interest in owning my own jewelry store. This program (I''ve decided to take by correspondence) will take me probably 2 years to complete (I assume).

I''m nervous because I don''t really want to finish this program and then be stuck working as a salesman in some small store in a mall making barely over minimim wage + commission.

I know that the gemology diploma and running a business are separate things, but I want the diploma so I have a good understanding of the industry I''d be getting myself into.

What are your thoughts?

I already work full time in an IT field making $30,000 CDN, which is just enough for me to get by. I''m not saving anything at the moment and I''m quite worried that persuing this idea might end up screwing me over in the end. I''ll end up as an GFA selling diamonds beside Joe Blow who doesn''t know anything but what he needs to know to sell the rings to other Joe Blow customers.

 

[DiamondExpert]

I would encourage you to go for it! The FGA is the premier credential in gemology, in my opinion.

It will turn you on, and once you can start networking in the field (you can start this as you study) you will be able to figure out where you want to try to fit in.

Once you finish the FGA, it''s like any other program, the piece of paper is a necessary, but not sufficient, entree into the trade. One of the best things you can to is find a good mentor, and learn everything you can about all aspects of the trade.

It takes time!!...several years to develop a knowledge base, an inerta with people/companies, and it takes an unblemished track record of integrity, fairness and objectivity to be successful...regardless of where you end up...wholesale, retail, gemology lab, clerk, management, owner!

Best of luck!!

 

[Richard Sherwood]

The gem business is diverse enough to encompass every type of personality, but it seem that you do best if you have a sales (people person) personality.

If so, I would think the gem business has a far higher ceiling than the IT field.

More fun too.

 

[Garry H (Cut Nut)]

good advice so far.

I agree that the techy side can be less important than the soft skills.

One thing I note is that many people in our industry ended up there because they did not do real well at school. That means in a kind''a way that people who are good enough at people sklls, and either excellent at organizational skills, or have a design flair, can excell after a year or 2 in the right org.

But remeber that many opportunities in this trade are inside family biz with the plum jobs going to the family.

if you are a typical IT nerd (like most of my friends) and shy away from excessive people contact - then a ''things'' based career (ie gems appraisal / grading etc) then think twice. It may be right for you - may not.

If you plan to run your own biz then read the E myth by Gerber, have a cold shower, open a burger stand and buy gems with the cash you make.

 

[strmrdr]

The vast majority of jobs in the industry are sales and for the most part dont pay well.
Iv been looking into it myself and its a hard field to break into and takes a long time to get anywhere.

 

[Garry H (Cut Nut)]

A critical sales skill is knowing what looks good on a person.

A sales kiler is knowing too much about the product.

Watchmakers are the worst watch sales people

 

[Paul-Antwerp]

Date: 11/12/2006 11:04:17 PM
Author: Garry H (Cut Nut)
A critical sales skill is knowing what looks good on a person.

A sales kiler is knowing too much about the product.

Watchmakers are the worst watch sales people

Hey Garry,

Is that why you are here in stead of trying to sell diamonds in your store?

 

[Garry H (Cut Nut)]

Date: 11/13/2006 2:25:13 PM
Author: Paul-Antwerp

Date: 11/12/2006 11:04:17 PM
Author: Garry H (Cut Nut)
A critical sales skill is knowing what looks good on a person.

A sales kiler is knowing too much about the product.

Watchmakers are the worst watch sales people

Hey Garry,

Is that why you are here in stead of trying to sell diamonds in your store?

Drat, he knows too much.
Now we will have to kill him!