As the new crop of advisors enter the financial market, the question remains – is the aptitude and work-ethic there to ensure that the torch can be passed down from the departing Baby Boom generation?
The Managing Director and head of HollisWealth, Tuula J. Jalasjaa, says there are four qualities that make up a successful financial advisor: a hunger for knowledge; a process-oriented approach; a big-picture thinker and a good listener.
“The good news is that many of these characteristics align well with what will be the next generation of financial advisors is thirsty for knowledge,” Jalasjaa told WP. “It’s a demographic quick to adapt to complex regulatory and technological change and they are deeply invested in providing personal, holistic service. Combined with mentorship, support, the right motivation and training there is almost no limit to what can be achieved.”
With regulations constantly evolving, new products are developed and introduced to the market, and the economy can shift overnight. This demands a curious nature and a willingness to learn, says Jalasjaa.
“The best advisors are inquisitive about their industry, invested in learning about all aspects of their organization,” she says. “And most importantly, deeply interested in uncovering the needs of their clients.”
A solid process can help an advisor excel and stay on top of their game in any career, she says, but that’s especially true of investment and relationship management.
When it comes to the “big picture” it is important to harness that knowledge and process an advisor has established to take a holistic view of his or her needs, says Jalasjaa.
“By looking beyond the immediate and focusing on the bigger story, the best advisors are able to gain their clients’ unwavering trust,” she says, “which means they’ll open up about all aspects of their financial planning.”
Financial planning can be an incredibly personal and sensitive space for many clients, continues Jalasjaa, and being empathetic and truly listening to the needs of the client is the only way to provide clients with the support and service they depend on.
“A lot can be said about the changes that have impacted our industry, but with change comes opportunity,” she says. “I have no doubt that the future is exciting for young professionals wishing to pursue a career in wealth management.”
“The good news is that many of these characteristics align well with what will be the next generation of financial advisors is thirsty for knowledge,” Jalasjaa told WP. “It’s a demographic quick to adapt to complex regulatory and technological change and they are deeply invested in providing personal, holistic service. Combined with mentorship, support, the right motivation and training there is almost no limit to what can be achieved.”
With regulations constantly evolving, new products are developed and introduced to the market, and the economy can shift overnight. This demands a curious nature and a willingness to learn, says Jalasjaa.
“The best advisors are inquisitive about their industry, invested in learning about all aspects of their organization,” she says. “And most importantly, deeply interested in uncovering the needs of their clients.”
A solid process can help an advisor excel and stay on top of their game in any career, she says, but that’s especially true of investment and relationship management.
When it comes to the “big picture” it is important to harness that knowledge and process an advisor has established to take a holistic view of his or her needs, says Jalasjaa.
“By looking beyond the immediate and focusing on the bigger story, the best advisors are able to gain their clients’ unwavering trust,” she says, “which means they’ll open up about all aspects of their financial planning.”
Financial planning can be an incredibly personal and sensitive space for many clients, continues Jalasjaa, and being empathetic and truly listening to the needs of the client is the only way to provide clients with the support and service they depend on.
“A lot can be said about the changes that have impacted our industry, but with change comes opportunity,” she says. “I have no doubt that the future is exciting for young professionals wishing to pursue a career in wealth management.”
