Dole says he had a client who worked for a health-care company where the work was becoming stressful. He was not ready for Social Security, but realigning his investments allowed him to retire early with an eye to collecting Social Security later to supplement her income,
“We try to give the client peace of mind, but we also tell them what they can and cannot do,” he says.
Sponsoring community activities helps Friedline Financial in Lee’s Summit, Mo., get the word out about their services and their support of the local community, says founder Lyall W. Friedline.
“Retirement planning can seem complicated, but we train the staff in how to communicate with clients. You might not want to talk to your grandmother the same way you would talk to a young friend. Also, if a client has questions, we get back to them as soon as possible,” which builds loyalty, says Friedline.
Shawn Okumura, principal and financial advisor at Transitions Wealth Advisors in San Jose, Calif., says the way to distinguish a firm in retirement planning is to anticipate the client’s needs.
“You have to be proactive based on the goals they share with you,” he says. “It sounds like a cliché, but you have to show you really care. That will make you standout.”