BY ANDY COHEN
Segment Your Agent Team
Not all agents are suited for wealth advisory roles; only a select few have the potential to thrive in that space. Choose candidates who show promise, such as those with the necessary education, strong motivation, and excellent communication skills, to work with wealthy clients.
Encourage Education and Certification
As a manager, encourage your agents to take the necessary courses and earn relevant credentials, education, and experience to present themselves confidently to clients. Lead by example by completing the same courses and earning the designations or degrees you expect from your agents.
Hold Wealth Management Workshops
Organize workshops in your agency that focus on case studies. Simply motivating agents to move upscale or offering abstract ideas isn’t enough. Provide your agents with valuable knowledge, expertise, and situational experience with wealthy clients through case studies and real-world scenarios.
Bring in Outside Experts
Invite outside speakers such as trust officers, lawyers, accountants, or top producers from your company to share their insights. These experts can offer invaluable advice and perspectives that will help your agents grow in the wealth advisory space.
Utilize Advanced Underwriting Experts
Many companies have “Advanced Underwriting” experts at the head office. If your company doesn’t have this resource, collaborate with management to connect with an expert from regional or corporate offices.
Ensure Your Agents Present Well
If you want your agents to attract upscale clients, they need to look the part. Make sure they present themselves with polished shoes, well-groomed nails, a quality wardrobe, and tasteful accessories such as a stylish pen or a refined briefcase—without the need for anything overly expensive.
Building a successful wealth advisory practice demands expertise, ongoing learning, and understanding wealthy clients’ needs. Prepare your team through professional development and collaboration, ensuring they’re knowledgeable and well-presented. Success comes from delivering tailored solutions that meet complex financial goals, benefiting both clients and your practice.
