The available options for saving, budgeting, investing, and more complicate money management. This is where financial professionals like Serge Robichaud come in. As a financial advisor with over 15 years of experience, Serge has developed a keen understanding of both the fundamentals and nuances of personal finance, so he provides clients with tailored guidance and solutions.
Master the fundamentals
At its core, sound financial planning starts with mastering the fundamentals. Serge ensures he has a working knowledge of topics like budgeting, saving, debt management, investments, insurance, retirement planning, and taxes. He understands how these basics work on their own and together so he can assess a client’s whole financial picture. His recommendations reflect new information about tax laws, investment products, government programs, and more. By cementing these fundamental skills, Serge has built a strong foundation that informs his financial planning and advice.
Continuously learn
While basics are critical, the world of personal finance hardly stands still. Trends, products, regulations, and economic conditions are constantly shifting. According to Serge, “Advisors who fall behind the curve run the risk of offering outdated or misinformed guidance to clients. Ongoing learning is mission-critical for financial professionals.” He regularly reads industry publications, takes continuing education courses, attends conferences, and participates in professional organizations to keep his knowledge fresh. Key topics he prioritizes include new investment options, updated insurance products, changes to Social Security and Medicare, and emerging scams that target consumers. Serge understands that he can only excel as an advisor if he also excels as a student of his industry.
Embrace technology
The financial professional in today’s world needs to utilize technology to improve the quality of their services and run their businesses more efficiently. Serge leverages customer relationship management (CRM) software to track interactions with clients, document recommendations, and monitor progress toward financial goals. His analysis of clients’ current finances and modeling of different future scenarios is also aided by financial planning programs. On the operational side, Serge maximizes his company’s technology infrastructure to manage productivity, security, analytics, and integration with other programs. He says, “Technology enables me to devote more time to client interactions while optimizing my business capabilities. Proficiency with key financial tech is now mandatory.” Financial advisors who shy away from adopting tech will have a hard time competing.
Focus on specialties
In addition to having expertise in financial planning, Serge has also developed a number of unique specialties. According to him, “Advisors need to identify niche areas where they deepen their skill sets to provide superior guidance to clients.” For example, Serge has established himself as an expert on sustainable investing and socially responsible investment portfolios. As demand increases for these options, Serge has the qualifications to construct ESG-focused portfolios and advise clients on aligning investments with values. He has also become highly proficient in areas like executive compensation, business succession planning, and navigating major life events. Developing specialties demonstrates expertise and allows advisors to differentiate themselves. The serge robichaud new brunswickapproach exemplifies how today’s top financial professionals accomplish their goals and deliver value to their clients.
