Originally posted by Newatthis
Are you saying that he should just use the other firm to learn and take his initial risk and then have no loyalty or thanks and leave for the best deal. Seems to me a good trade-off to sign a contract in exchange for teaching and risk adjustment. If it was just "training" that he had to pay for like some firms have then he should sign nothing. But if the firm is taking his risk, then he should be willing to sign a contract.
If he turns the corner and is up for a better deal, he should first go to his existing firm. "Look, you're taking 40% and have these commissions and this firm will give me 100% and these lower commissions. If you can give me as good a deal, I'll stay, but otherwise, thanks for everything and I need to move on."
A smart firm would have him sign something, but he should be careful not to get locked into anything that will keep him from being flexible in the future. Like, maybe commit to a year, but no more.