I spent the last two days at our investment partner PortfolioMetrix’s annual conference. It was great to catch up with industry colleagues who have become friends, even confidantes and strategic partners. We shared laughs and great Cape wines.
There was work as well – two full days jam-packed with stimulating, innovative discussions and presentations. Topics ranged from the impact of ageing on the role of advisors to the legal challenges of social media, and the use of artificial intelligence in effective client communications. We were uplifted by award-winning political analyst Simon Freemantle’s positive take on the local political landscape. Storyteller Michael Charton kept us captivated by the story of Bobby Kennedy’s visit to South Africa in 1966, illustrating the power of storytelling and Bobby’s remarkable ability to connect with people, even those with opposing political views.
I reflected on my luck in finding my way into the financial planning profession. This profession has exposed me to a wide variety of fields and challenged me to keep learning and go beyond the mandatory professional development points so I can stay relevant to clients and build a sustainable business.
Today’s successful financial planning business is a far cry from the insurance salesman or the investment expert posing as a financial advisor. Flourishing financial planning businesses are complex organisations, that need to deliver a deliberate client experience, sound financial planning, flawless execution, and ongoing support that engenders trust and confidence from clients, all the while complying with stringent regulations. Owners and managers of these businesses need to master a wide range of skills - from financial management and digital technology to data analysis and client experience optimisation. This is, of course, over and above the entry-level requirements of financial, investment, legal, and tax expertise necessary for comprehensive financial planning.
Increasingly, we realise that the best advice is more than just technical. It’s also empathic and compassionate, can ask good questions, and listen well. In addition, great businesses in our profession also focus on building teams that will sustain their service to clients long past the working careers of the founders.
As I surveyed the room, I recognised remarkable industry peers – founders who are trailblazers, entrepreneurs and passionate custodians of their clients’ financial futures. I am proud to be associated with such peers. There is respect, camaraderie, and a common goal to improve the outcomes for our clients.
Being part of the financial planning environment has ensured that I continue to grow and learn, not just as a professional but as a person. This ongoing development has allowed me to bring my clients fresh perspectives and deeper insights. In turn, my work for them continually challenges me to evolve, creating a cycle of growth and improvement that I hope reflects in the service and value I provide.
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Kind regards,
Sunél