Topics and trends that financial advice firms will need to consider
Financial services remain a sector with enduring growth potential, playing a pivotal role in the financial well-being of an increasingly wide range of clients. Still, it continues to experience a set of accelerating disruptions.
The competitive landscape is being reshaped by various forces, including an expanding, diversified client base with rising expectations, new ways of working powered by technology, fast regulatory change, geopolitical volatility and aggressive new entrants with efficient business models.
Heightened consumer expectations
Online business for many has become the norm since the pandemic, with heightened consumer expectations of a seamless, personalised experience. Client-centricity is the new mantra via mobile apps, ‘always-on’ multichannel advice, and convenient and secure self-service capabilities.
Higher-net-worth clients, in particular, want timely updates on the latest investment opportunities. New segments are emerging, notably ambitious young consumers and entrepreneurs, whose rising affluence is fuelled by wealth transfer from their ageing baby boomer parents.
Digital and hybrid business models
Many seek services, products and investment strategies historically limited to wealthier clients. Add to this the growing wealth among women and a client marketplace that includes five generations.
Multi-generational wealth transfer, the implementation of digital and hybrid business models, the introduction of digital assets, and the increasing concern for environmental and social issues are topics and trends that financial advice firms will need to consider as we move through 2023.
Adopt an innovation mindset
To thrive in this dynamic environment, firms need to prioritise growth, adopt an innovation mindset, and be prepared to reallocate resources rapidly in response to the changing context. Setting goals is a crucial part of any successful business. You can measure your progress with goals and determine whether you’re on track to achieve your overall objectives.
As the new year approaches, now is the perfect time to reassess your firm’s business goals and ensure they’re still relevant and achievable. What do you want to achieve with your business in the coming year? Be as specific as possible so you can create measurable goals that will help you track your progress. When do you want to achieve each goal? A timeline will help you stay on track and ensure your goals are realistic.
A sense of purpose and motivation
Make sure everyone in your firm knows your business goals for the coming year or, better still, the next five years. Understanding the business’s goals will ensure everyone is working towards the same objectives and hold yourself accountable for achieving your goals. Set up systems and reviews to ensure you’re on track, and don’t be afraid to alter course if necessary.
As a business owner or leader, you can track progress and make necessary adjustments by having specific and measurable goals. Additionally, goal setting will give your employees a sense of purpose and motivation to achieve results.
When developing goals, it is essential to keep the following factors in mind:
- The goal should be specific and measurable
- The goal should be achievable and realistic
- The goal should be relevant to the company’s overall mission and vision
- The goal should have a timeframe associated with it
Moving in the right direction
If a goal meets only some of these criteria, it may be necessary to revise it. Once goals are established, it is important to communicate them to all team members so everyone knows what needs to be accomplished.
Regular reviews should be conducted to track progress and identify roadblocks that may prevent employees from achieving results. A business leader can ensure that the company is moving in the right direction by setting and consistently working towards goals.
Service and lifestyle are key
Rather than focusing on products, firms now have an opportunity to ‘own’ financial advice and become a central part of clients’ lives — service and lifestyle are essential. This broader calling should open new businesses and channels and offer a greater sense of purpose to prospective new employees with changing values.
There is no one-size-fits-all approach because firms are as diverse and multifaceted as their clients. But there’s no time to waste. Firms that don’t transform will face increased disruption and may risk irrelevance to their target market.
Develop a Marketing Strategy
2023 is a milestone year for businesses of all sizes as it marks the beginning of a new digital marketing age. Now more than ever, it’s vital to develop a solid marketing strategy for optimal success.
Email marketing and search engine optimisation are essential components of any successful plan because they allow companies to reach more prospective clients.
Furthermore, establishing excellent customer service standards ensures customers feel secure in making inquiries and purchases with the business.
These are essential elements when developing the company’s marketing strategy for the upcoming year.
Ready to partner with Goldmine Media to achieve your ambitions?
Our dedicated team works with firms to help them achieve their ambitions. We achieve impact based on broad industry insights and deep technical expertise. To find out more, call Goldmine Media on 0845 686 0055 or email: findoutmore@goldminemedia.co.uk.
