How do you demonstrate your value to your clients as a financial advisor? Too many advisors believe they can demonstrate value by talking up their credentials or sharing past successes. Still, others try to push their expensive educations or years of experience as a way to justify their fees. The truth of the matter is, your clients likely won’t care about any of this. In fact, many will be turned off by it. The best way to demonstrate value to your clients is also the one that is most beneficial for you as a person. When you invest in yourself, you not only ensure you are always at your best, but you also show your clients you value yourself—and they should too.
If you’ve spent your career always doing for others, you may find it difficult to even know where to start when it comes to investing in yourself. Here are a few ways to get started.
Take Care of Yourself
Are you scheduling meetings first and your life last? This is a huge mistake. One of the biggest perks of being an independent advisor is that you can create a business and a schedule that works for you. Make sure you schedule plenty of time for yourself before you start filling in with client work. Take time to exercise, develop a relaxation ritual, spend time with friends and family, and indulge in your hobbies. You also need to make sure you get plenty of sleep, downtime, and nutritious foods. When you put yourself first, you’ll have more energy and resources to take care of your clients and your business.
Educate Yourself
One of the best things you can do for your career (and your life in general) is to adopt the mindset of a lifelong learner. Read as much as you can, watch videos, listen to podcasts, attend conferences and workshops, and take courses like our Evolved Advisor course that help you sharpen your skills and become a better advisor. When you understand that you will never master your profession and that there is always more to learn, you can view your career as a challenge that continually makes you better.
Learn a New Skill
I’m a big believer in learning new skills—even if they don’t seem to have anything to do with your career. When you learn new skills such as public speaking, a new language, woodworking, fixing your own car, gourmet cooking, or how to play an instrument, you’re broadening your mind. You’re also finding new ways to connect with clients. The more hobbies and interests you have, the more chances you have at finding common ground with those you work with. They will appreciate being able to talk to someone in the know and they will realize the value of working with someone who wants the most out of life.
Get a Coach
When you work with a business coach, you will be constantly pushed to be your very best for both yourself and your clients. You get even more value out of a coach when he or she is also an advisor because that coach knows the ins and outs of building an advisory business. A good coach will offer plenty of opportunities to work with them including in-person, in groups, and via online forums or interactive events. When choosing a coach, make sure you settle on one you relate to, who makes you feel good about yourself, and who demonstrates a desire to help you grow.
Want to show your clients how much value you’ll bring to their life and finances? You first must demonstrate you value yourself and are willing to invest in your career and personal well-being. Want to talk about other ways to invest in yourself? Please reach out! I’d love to help.