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People do business with other people. They like to do business with friends. If you've selected to wear the mantle of professional financial advisor, you're probably friendly. Some of the most successful financial advisors make a habit of helping others. They don't hire airplanes to drop thousands of business cards on a sports stadium or hire private lead generation companies. They simply make a consistent habit of helping other people.
They help other people--where they worship, in the community, or anywhere!
Follow your passions, and watch your business grow!
1. Do What It Takes to Stay In Touch
Meet with prospects and clients in person. People do business with other people, and learning about your clients as you let them know you is an essential element to landing, then keeping, business. Talk to people during the day—when you’re running errands, standing in line at the bank (hopefully, you don’t spend too much time standing in line at the bank!), or watching your daughter’s soccer practice.
People need your services, so don’t be shy about introducing yourself. Have a short and conversational introduction ready at all times. If your clients like you, they will like what you do for them even more!
2. Network, Network, Network
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Everyone tells you to network, and it’s good business. There’s no substitute for in-person networking, such as through a community organization or group. Helping others without the expectation of return is good for the soul. Form relationships with other people who want to make the world a better place.
Online and social networks are a good idea, of course. Facebook, Plaxo, LinkedIn and others make it easy to access your email contacts. Invite everyone you know, then network face-to-face as often as possible. Remember, as above, people like to do business with people. Friendship is an important element of business-building and development.