According to AARP, 48% of households headed by individuals ages 55 and older need to do more to prepare for retirement. Additionally, 29% of people in the US who are retired or nearing 65 years old have no retirement savings or pension. These statistics underscore a significant issue: Many individuals are not financially prepared for their futures. While some of your clients might be on track for retirement with the help of a financial planner or wealth advisor, others might need additional support. David Kerber, a financial planner and wealth manager at Mercer Advisors, offers valuable insights on how to better serve your clients with financial planning.
What Your Clients’ Financial Advisors Want You to Know
- There Is No Income Requirement to Work with a Financial Advisor
Although some agencies work only with clients who meet certain minimums, there are professionals in the financial planning industry who cater to clients with varying levels of wealth. Whether your clients have a limited budget or hundreds of millions tucked away, all would benefit from working with a financial advisor who can help them make the most of their resources. Mercer Advisors and other financial planning agencies across the country accept a diverse range of clients, including those with modest savings. Encourage your clients who need help preparing for retirement or maximizing their assets to connect with a financial planner as soon as possible. The earlier they start, the more options they will have. - A Financial Advisor Should Care About the Clients’ Goals
When recommending financial advisors to your clients, look for seasoned professionals who prioritize the client’s needs. David emphasized that a good wealth manager takes the time to gather comprehensive data about the client’s financial situation and understand their goals and concerns. “Some clients may prioritize enjoying their savings while others aim to leave a legacy for their family. Others might focus on charitable donations,” David shared. However your clients wish to use their money, a skilled planner will tailor their approach to align with the client’s desires. - A Financial Plan Should Be Optimized and Clear
As a wealth manager, David stated that his goal is to help clients feel confident about their financial situation, both now and in the future. Creating financial confidence starts with optimizing resources but also involves simplifying the financial plan. “We want to help amplify their financial situation, but also simplify it,” said David. Ensuring the plan works and meets the client’s goals is essential, but clarity is equally important. When clients understand how their assets are managed, they are empowered to make informed decisions that make financial sense for them. - Working with a Financial Advisor is an Ongoing Relationship
Some clients view meeting with a financial advisor as a one-time event, but in reality, good wealth managers form ongoing relationships with their clients. Many financial advisors meet with clients quarterly, but some are content with meeting once a year, depending on client needs and preferences. When should your clients be meeting with their financial advisor? Significant life changes, such as births, deaths, divorces, or real estate transactions, warrant a check-in with their financial advisor. These events often require adjustments to the financial plan and impact the client’s overall financial picture.
Remember that a financial advisor can play a crucial role in helping your clients achieve their financial goals and help them prepare for retirement. By working with financial advisors, you can provide a more holistic approach to your clients’ needs, addressing both their housing and financial security.