Ed Slott, CPA, is president of Ed Slott and Company, and a nationally recognized expert on IRAs and other retirement issues.
Top advice
Call your clients! Every advisor must be communicating with their clients. They are desperate to hear you — your voice. You!
I mean actual talking, not mass emails, like I am seeing, which only says you're too busy, soulless or unconcerned, and that includes emails that say "We're concerned, and we care."
It's time to get off the tech and show them — don't tell them. Call them and reassure them that you are there and on top of things.
They need to know not to panic or worry and to look at the long-term big picture and all the things they have done right with you to protect them.
We already are doing videos and virtual programs for advisors and their clients, and they are being very well received — and appreciated.
Clients will remember how you responded during this critical time. You need to let them know you are there for them. They will talk about you one way or the other after this, but if you don't call them, they will find someone who will — their new advisor.
Biggest challenge
Our business is mostly live advisor and consumer training programs. Now, due to this new world reality, all of that is being switched over to virtual events.
