- How to Find a RIA Compliance Consultant
Registered investment advisors (RIAs) must adhere to a multitude of regulations and compliance requirements. Staying on top of these ever-evolving rules and regulations can be a daunting task and failing to adhere to them can result in significant penalties. This is where a RIA compliance consultant can help. Let’s break down what these professionals do, why… read more…
- A Guide to Financial Advisor Development Programs
Embarking on a career as a financial advisor requires the proper education and certification to ensure that you’re qualified to offer advice to clients. Many firms offer development programs that are designed to prepare you for your entry into the financial services industry. Joining a financial advisor development program could help you build a solid… read more…
- Do Financial Advisors Need to Work With a Coach?
Achieving your goals as a financial advisor may be easier when you have someone to guide you along the path. That’s where financial advisor coaching comes in. A coach can help you to fine-tune your strategy for growth and become a better advisor. Considering the potential benefits and return on investment can help you decide… read more…
- Estate Planning Software Options for Financial Advisors
Estate planning is an important service that financial advisors offer, ensuring a smooth transfer of wealth and the protection of a client’s financial legacy. Utilizing the right tools for estate planning can greatly enhance the accuracy and efficiency of developing them for your clients. For financial advisors looking for estate planning software, several top-tier options… read more…
- Financial Advisor Job Outlook for 2025 and Beyond
Over the next decade, the job outlook for financial advisors looks extremely promising, with abundant opportunities nationwide. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts employment of financial advisors will expand much faster than the average occupation. Growth is concentrated in cities with strong financial services sectors, but jobs can be found almost anywhere. An aging population… read more…
- How Long Does It Take to Get Your CFP?
Understanding the certified financial planner (CFP) certification, the steps involved and how long it takes, can help new financial advisors and those looking to progress their career start planning the process. While it typically takes 18 to 24 months to complete, there are many things that could impact the CFP timeline for you. Here’s what… read more…
- SEC Exam Priorities for 2025
The SEC’s Division of Examinations (commonly known as EXAMS) is the oversight branch of the Securities and Exchange Commission. It’s the second largest section of the agency, after the enforcement arm. The Division of Examinations uses a variety of inspections and examinations to make sure that companies and other market participants are following the SEC’s… read more…
- Helpful Online Tools for Financial Advisors
The financial advisory industry has rapidly evolved with the rise of digital technology. Today, fintech solutions offer advisors a wide range of tools that can help streamline operations, automate routine tasks and enhance client service. From financial planning and portfolio management to lead generation, these financial advisor tools can be tailored to meet the unique… read more…
- How Much Do Senior Financial Advisors Make?
Becoming a senior financial advisor can open up new avenues for career success. Taking on this type of role can also mean a significant increase in pay. But what’s a typical senior financial advisor salary? The average is around $120,000 annually. However, salaries operate on a range with some advisors earning more and others earning… read more…
- How to Create a Valuable Elevator Pitch as a Financial Advisor
Opportunities to connect with new clients can arise at any moment, and when they do, it’s to your advantage to be prepared. Having a well-crafted elevator pitch ready to go can help you make a great first impression on a prospective client and grab their attention so they’re interested in learning more. Knowing how to… read more…
- Marketing Ideas and Tips for Financial Advisors
Marketing plays a critical role in growing your advisory business, helping you attract new clients, build brand recognition and differentiate yourself in a competitive industry. While traditional strategies still have their place, experimenting with fresh and creative tactics can reveal new opportunities to connect with your ideal audience. The key is finding what aligns with… read more…
- Direct Mail Marketing for Financial Advisors
Direct mail is an often overlooked marketing tool for financial advisors,despite its potential to create deeper connections with prospects. Less than 5% of advisors reported using postal mail for promotion, according to a 2024 Kitces report on how financial planners market their firms.1 By understanding how to design an effective direct mail campaign, you can… read more…
- How to Become an Independent Financial Advisor
Becoming an independent financial advisor can give you freedom and flexibility to serve the type of clients you’re most equipped to help. By 2027, independent and hybrid RIAs are expected to control nearly one-third of asset market share, growing at a faster rate than any other advisor channel, according to Cerulli Associates.1 Choosing independence opens up… read more…
- Understanding Email Prospecting for Financial Advisors
In today’s digital age, financial advisors must maximize tools like email prospecting to grow their client base. This involves identifying prospects, sending personalized emails, and following up to nurture relationships. Done effectively, email prospecting is a low-cost way to reach a wide audience, build connections, and track engagement. When deployed effectively, email prospecting can reach… read more…
- 10 Digital Marketing Ideas for Financial Advisors
In the digitally connected world, savvy financial advisors understand the need to leverage digital marketing strategies to reach potential clients and grow their businesses. With the right tools and an understanding of the digital landscape, financial advisors can increase online visibility, target specific demographics and engage with a wider audience, leading to brand growth and… read more…
- Custodian vs. Broker-Dealer: What’s the Difference for Your Firm?
In the world of finance and investment, custodians and broker-dealers play crucial roles in safeguarding and facilitating transactions. Understanding the roles and differences between these entities is important for financial advisors and their clients. While custodians and broker-dealers serve integral functions in the financial industry, they have distinct responsibilities and regulatory obligations. Add new clients… read more…
- What Does a Mutual Fund Advisor Do?
Investing in mutual funds can be a lucrative venture, helping you grow your wealth, save for retirement or achieve other financial goals. However, navigating this complex landscape can be challenging for many, especially those new to investing. Enter the mutual fund advisor – a financial professional providing expert guidance and assistance in the world of… read more…
- How to Build a Client Service Model as a Financial Advisor
The importance of creating an exceptional client service model can’t be underestimated. Attracting clients – and retaining their loyalty – begins and ends with delivering an experience that not only meets but exceeds their expectations. The most effective client service model for financial advisors is one that emphasizes value while encouraging engagement. Here’s a closer… read more…
- How to Build a Marketing Plan for Financial Planners
Building a financial planning business can bring plenty of challenges, not the least of which is deciding how to market your new firm. However, a solid marketing campaign can catapult your business to success. Unfortunately, a weak one may leave you struggling to stand out from the competition. To create a successful financial planning marketing… read more…
- Types of Money Scripts and How to Deal With Each in a Client
Money is a highly personal subject, and as an advisor, it’s your job to offer advice that speaks to your clients’ individual needs and goals. The money scripts clients adopt can influence the way that you approach that task. A client’s money script represents the internalized beliefs they have about money, which are often formed… read more…
- Errors and Omissions (E&O) Insurance for RIAs and Advisors
Errors and omissions insurance provides financial advisors and registered investment advisors (RIAs) with protection against client claims related to professional mistakes, negligence, or failure to deliver promised services. This professional liability insurance typically helps pay for legal fees, settlements or judgments resulting from such claims. For firms subject to regulatory oversight and client scrutiny, errors… read more…
- Transitioning a Financial Advisor Firm: What to Know
The process of transitioning a financial advisor firm involves moving client relationships and assets, which often define the viability and profitability of the firm. This is done by either buying a book of business or hiring a new financial advisor who is bringing a book of business with them. For advisors, understanding this transition can… read more…
- A Guide to Hiring an Associate Advisor for Your Firm
Are you looking to take your firm to the next level? The right talent can make all the difference, and one such talent is an associate advisor. This crucial player in client relationship management, portfolio analysis and support for financial plans can supercharge your firm’s strategic growth. This guide unpacks each step of the process,… read more…
- How to Buy a Financial Advisor Book of Business
Buying a book of business as a financial advisor involves acquiring an existing client base, often from a retiring or transitioning advisor. This process can be an opportunity to expand your practice, generate immediate revenue and build long-term relationships with established clients. Acquiring a book requires assessing both the advantages and potential risks, as well… read more…
- How to Find a Financial Advisor Internship
Financial advisors often credit their successful careers to the insights and experience gained during internships, underscoring the significance of such opportunities. A financial advisor internship is a valuable stepping stone into the finance industry, a chance to apply classroom knowledge in real-world situations. Here’s a breakdown of what these internships entail, the types of companies… read more…