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How to Crush It Before the Next Decade

This decade has proven that our industry is changing faster than ever. But remember, to thrive, we all need to stay ahead. Here’s how you can not just survive but crush it between now and the next decade:

Embrace technology like a pro

Tech is the lifeline of an advisor's success and likely will always be.

• AI is your new best friend: Imagine tools that can analyze client behavior, predict market trends, and make portfolio recommendations—all while you focus on the human side of advising.
• Automate: Free yourself from high-volume, low-value tasks. Automation lets you focus on what truly matters: connecting with your clients meaningfully.
• Cybersecurity: Protecting client data is table stakes today. Encourage your dealer to invest in solid systems to safeguard trust.
• Go virtual: From video calls to online portals, make it ridiculously easy for clients to engage with you. Virtual communication doesn't mean losing the personal touch. It's about making your services more accessible and convenient all hours of the day while maintaining the personal connection crucial in financial advising.

Make it personal

Clients don’t just want advisors—they want partners for life.

• Becoming this close means talking about dreams, goals, and concerns. Things to ask:
• What are your clients’ life goals?
• What are their concerns?
• What is the bigger picture, whether it’s retiring in style, funding a child’s education, or leaving a legacy?
• Understand how they think: Behavioral finance can be a game-changer. Help clients overcome biases and make smarter financial choices.
• Full-Service: Be the one-stop shop they can’t live without—integrating tax planning, estate advice, and even insurance into your offerings.

Level up your expertise

The more you know, the more indispensable you’ll be.

• Ride the trends: Crypto? ESG investing? Alternative assets? If it’s new and buzz-worthy, you should at least know about it.
• Certify yourself: Advanced designations like CFP or CFA boost your credibility and open doors to niche markets.
• Never stop learning: Get a coach and attend webinars, workshops, and conferences to soak it all in and stay ahead of the curve.

• Put clients at the center of your universe

The old-school “quarterly check-in” approach isn’t cutting it anymore.

• Be transparent: Clear, fee-based models build trust and eliminate the guesswork.
• Stay in touch: Whether it’s a quick call, a thoughtful email, or a personalized update, keep showing up for your clients.
• Know the next generation: Wealth is shifting, and younger clients care about tech, impact investing, and learning how to manage it all. Meet them where they are.

Build a brand people can’t ignore

You’re more than just an advisor—you’re a brand.

• Own the internet: Blogs, webinars, social media—share your expertise and make it easy for people to find you.
• Leverage referrals: Happy clients are your best marketing tool. Create referral programs that encourage them to spread the word.
• Partnership: Work with attorneys, accountants, and other professionals to give clients an all-in-one experience.

Stay ahead of regulations

Compliance might not be fun, but it’s crucial. Staying ahead of regulations is not just about avoiding penalties. It's about maintaining trust and credibility with your clients. It's about showing them that you prioritize best practices and always seek their best interests.

• Know the rules: Regulatory changes can sneak up on you. Stay sharp and informed
• Look to the USA, the UK, and Australia for what’s happening with regulatory changes
• Become ESG savvy: Environmental, social, and governance factors are becoming prominent. Show clients you’re ahead of the game.

Adapt to Changing Demographics

Your clients aren’t one-size-fits-all.

• Be inclusive: Different clients have different needs. Embrace diversity to expand your reach.
• Living longer (Longevity): An aging population means more focus on healthcare and long-term planning.
• Educate the young: Help younger clients master the basics of financial literacy. It’s an investment in your future, too.

Master Emotional Intelligence

Our business is all about solid, long-term relationships.

• Show that you care: Be there for clients during market downturns, life changes, money-in-motion events, or tough family conversations.
• Handle tough situations: When navigating family conflicts or managing expectations, show empathy and tact.

The Bottom Line:

The wealth management industry is full of opportunities for those advisors willing to adapt, innovate, and lead with the heart. Through the combination of technology and a personal approach, you’ll meet your clients’ needs and exceed their wildest expectations. So buckle up and get ready to crush it!

The best way to start is by benchmarking your practice today. Know where you stand in comparison to elite financial advisors. Isn't it time you benchmarked your practice? 

 https://www.advisorpracticemanagement.com/benchmark 

Would you like a copy of our Comprehensive Practice Management Checklist for financial advisors?

How About Your Goals for Your Practice in 2025?

 While each financial advisor's practice may have a different approach, advisors need to understand where their practice needs help, and will they get the right help for the right part of their practice. What areas does your practice need help with?

Free Resources:

21 Page Technology Checklist to Become a Future-Ready Advisor

Fee Audit Checklist for Ideal Prospects

Updated Comprehensive PracticeManagement Guides

We are here to serve your practice, let’s talk

Contact us to help get clarity around your goals on paper, and have the goals conversation by contacting Jeff at jeff@jeffthorsteinson.com 

Regardless if we work together, let’s have a chat and listen to your biggest practice management concerns to help you get clarity around your future business.



To book a NO obligation conversation with me to discuss practice management or coaching click the following link https://calendly.com/jeffthorsteinson/30-minute-q-a-explore-apm and let’s talk.

Jeff Thorsteinson, Grant Hicks and Advisor Practice Management's combined financial advisor clients manage over 8 billion AUM, and earn over $80 million dollars combined!

Schedule Appointment 

Visit www.advisorpracticemanagement.com for speaking, workshops, or coaching, contact us below 

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