This past week I presented my first financial plan as an independent. I analyzed several scenarios to determine the proper course of action for the client. This couple seemed to follow it well, and was appreciative of my effort. The truth is we all like to feel appreciated. After all, isn't helping clients realize their dreams the reason we became planners? To be viewed as a trusted ally is one of the highest compliments we can receive. I am also working on two other financial plans for clients who have engaged me. Creating financial plans is a very time consuming process. Because of this, I plan to take on no more than two to three new planning engagements per month. I'll keep you posted.
Now let's discuss marketing. I am in the process of creating an introductory packet to give to prospective clients. It will also help me to codify, in my own mind, my value proposition and will contain several tabs, or sections.
Included is a Bio, Code of Ethics, Summary of Service Offerings, Articles and Publications, Uniqueness of my Financial Planning Tool (not a retail, off-the-shelf product), Investment Process, and finally, what my being an RIA means to the client. It will be one of my central marketing pieces. I also sent a few press releases to various newspapers this week. Not sure if they will pick it up. I'll let you know.
