10 Experiences That Strengthen Bonds With Clients

"Friends don't fire friends." It's not a hard and fast rule, but when there is both a business and a social relationship present, the bonds grow stronger. How can you develop these types of bonds with your clients? Some advisors might ask, "Why bother? I keep my personal and business lives separate." These advisors switch off at the end of the day and switch back on when they walk into the office the next morning. They might be committed to doing the best job possible for their clients, but the relationship is strictly professional. Here is why you should want to become part of your client's life — at least some of them, anyway: Every prospect and client wants to feel their advisor cares about them as an individual. They do not want a friendly croupier in a casino; they want someone who is emotionally invested in their success. Get the relationship right and you might get all their assets, along with the accounts of their parents, children and friends. The stakes are high. In the ideal situation, your unique personal bond also initiates or strengthens the professional bond. Soon, your friend becomes an enthusiastic fan, telling others with your shared personal interest they should consider working with you on a professional level. Check out the gallery for 10 commonalities you can leverage to become part of their lives.