The Biggest Technology Time-Savers For Financial Advisors
It’s pretty common these days to ask someone how they are and get the response, “Busy!” And chances are, if you are an independent financial advisor carrying the heavy but fulfilling load of running your own business, serving your clients, and everything that goes along with that, you could probably use a few extra hours in your day. Well, we can’t pause time, but we can help you use technology to save time and live a more efficient, less stressful life.
First, The Elephant In The Room
Before we start digging into specific technology tools, let’s address the top issue we hear from advisors about embracing technology: the learning curve. You are already short on time, and technology often requires an investment of time in the beginning to save time in the end. Then there’s the added headache of not understanding how things work or how to make them work for you.
We encourage you to dive in. When you adopt a new tech tool, set aside 20 minutes in your schedule to watch some tutorials, read FAQs, and reach out to the company’s service team. You’ll be surprised at how such a small investment of time can pay off down the road by taking tedious or time-consuming tasks off your plate. And if you’re still struggling, Freedom Wealth Alliance has your back. We not only provide the best tools and technology, but since we know these tools inside and out, we can help you use them too.
Now, on to our list!
Wealthbox Or Redtail
We’ve talked about this before, but a customer relationship management (CRM) system is the hub of your business. CRMs not only help you keep track of clients and prospects, but also save you time and help you close more leads. Instead of having leads fall through the cracks, your CRM will keep all of your clients’ information saved in an intuitive, searchable system. You can set your CRM up to remind you to follow-up with prospects or schedule quarterly meetings with current clients. Depending on what software you use, your CRM may also be able to sync with your account management system or your email marketing software. After checking with your compliance department, check into approved CRM vendors, most are built specifically for financial advisors to grow their assets under management by helping you stay organized and thoughtful about how you approach clients and prospects.
Opt-In Forms And Automated Marketing Software
Marketing is tough for advisors. You want to focus on developing personal relationships with your clients and often don’t have the time or know-how to create a marketing strategy. But often it only takes small steps to make a big difference. Use Mailchimp or ConvertKit or Drip (there are many others out there too) to embed opt-in forms on your website. Then write a sequence of emails and automate the whole process. This allows you to share your story, give your prospect a taste of your brand, and follow through, all without spending all day every day writing emails. Check in with your compliance department for a list of approved vendors.
Virtual Office Tools
Namely a password management system and virtual meeting support. One of the reasons you probably chose to become an independent financial advisor was the increased flexibility the role provides. You can work from home, a coffee shop, or on the road. But in order to do that, you need access to your work wherever you go.
A password management system like LastPass saves all of your online passwords in a secure, encrypted format. Having your passwords in a central location means you can access your work anywhere, anytime.
Video conferencing tools allow you to communicate with your team and your clients virtually, not only broadening your client base by removing geographical limitations, but also enhancing flexibility for your clients who have busy schedules and can’t always meet during regular office hours. The right tools can show your clients that you care about their lives and are willing to do what it takes to make things easier for them.
And the list goes on……
We live in a time when new technology is introduced daily. There are so many tools advisors can use in their practice, but don’t get overwhelmed by all the options. Check with your broker/dealer for approved vendors then start small, adding one tool at a time and enjoying the benefits of more time and energy for other aspects of your job. And if you don’t want to dig into the technological world alone, Freedom Wealth Alliance provides the necessary tools to help your business thrive. Learn more about our firm and the suite of technology tools we offer by visiting www.explorefreedomwealthalliance.com. You can also email us at krozman@freedomwealthalliance.com or call Kurt Rozman at 262-798-7979.
About Freedom Wealth Alliance
Freedom Wealth Alliance is a Registered Investment Advisor providing a home and multiple affiliation options for financial advisors seeking business growth and/or succession planning, operational excellence, and turn-key placement. We created this firm to relieve your stress no matter the stage of your firm. We take the burden of running the business off your back, so you can spend your time doing what you do best and love the most. If that means spending more time with clients and prospects, you can. If that means spending more time with your family, just do it. Visit www.explorefreedomwealthalliance.com and sign up for a free account to access all the tools and resources we have developed to help you transition to true freedom and business ownership.
For Investment Professional Use Only
The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual.