During the last quarter of 2012 I had to navigate around the hospital/Medicare system with an aging parent who had a stroke. My parents are college-educated, intelligent, savvy people who had always assured my siblings and me that they had everything under control. Well, it turns out they didn’t. And the one person who has helped us navigate the mess was their new financial advisor, Kimberly Fogg, Merrill Lynch, who also happens to be a Supernova wealth advisor. They moved their portfolio to her one month before the stroke and she started the planning process including a financial plan, cash flow analysis and monthly contact. But there were many things left undone due to the short time they had been working together. Fortunately, we have been putting together the pieces – beneficiaries, end of year tax details, life insurance policies that should be cashed-in, autos titled incorrectly, too many bank accounts, and unprotected taxable assets…just to name a few.
Do any of your clients have the same issues? Have you checked with each one? If you haven’t – make that your goal for 2013 as you hold your monthly 12-4-2 calls and meetings. Remember, one of the commitments you make to your clients as a Supernova advisor is a comprehensive financial plan that is regularly monitored and updated. What’s more, this is an opportunity for you to have regular conversations with each of your clients that you will truly feel good about. The result will be even more loyal fans. These loyal fans will tell their friends and family about you and referrals will happen automatically.
Take your commitment to financial planning seriously. Make sure every client has a plan. If you have clients without a cash flow analysis create one for them. You will help them think about the future just by going through the process. Look into their insurance needs and make sure they are met. Check on their mortgage rates, beneficiaries, wills and tax situation.
Supernova advisors know where their clients stand. They make sure their affairs are in order and update them on an ongoing basis. This takes a lot of time. That is why you should set your minimum high enough to make sure you’re properly being paid for your valuable time. That is why you have to carefully consider the maximum number of clients you are willing to handle. For their part, your clients will know the value you are providing and you will be rewarded in countless ways.
If you’re a Supernova member, you can download our Personal Information Update in the downloads tab of this website. This PDF document is a great way to get the information gathering (or updating) process started. It is a not meant to replace financial plannning tools you already use. It is a guide for the designated caregivers who needs to keep the client’s affairs in order in case of illness or death. You may be surprised by how many spouses don’t know the information on this form.
Here are some simple steps you may want to consider in using this or other financial planning tools:
Planning is part of your brand as a Supernova advisor. This form is just one more tool your clients and their families will be grateful for your attention to detail. You will stand apart from the crowd.To find out more about the Supernova Coaching Program fill out this form (click here).