The Perfect RIA

In this episode of The Perfect RIA, Micah and Matt dive deep into the art of effective client communication for financial advisors. They stress the critical role of intentional communication in delivering tangible value to clients and helping them reach their financial aspirations. Handling tough questions is a key topic, where they underscore the necessity of maintaining client trust through prompt follow-ups and confidence, even when the answer isn't immediately clear. Micah and Matt emphasize the power of advisors knowing their niche and tapping into resources for accurate, reliable information. They reveal how implementing streamlined systems can ensure consistent, impactful client interactions. Moreover, this episode explores practical strategies for handling client questions and concerns. Micah and Matt stress the importance of preparation and thorough research to deliver impactful answers. They share insightful stories, like navigating complex tax scenarios, and emphasize the crucial role of understanding cash flow in retirement planning. This episode is a must-listen if you're a financial advisor looking to transform your client interactions. Share it with your colleagues to elevate everyone's practice to new heights. Tune in for actionable insights that can redefine the way you communicate and serve your clients. Bad Ways to Answer Clients [Episode 256] Resources in today's episode: - Micah Shilanski: Website | LinkedIn - Matt Jarvis: Website | LinkedIn - Estate Planning Masterclass

Join Amber in this episode of The Perfect RIA as she recaps the week's essential insights for financial advisors. Discover the significance of prioritizing client goals over investments and delegating investment decisions. Streamline your investment review process and communicate effectively with clients. Learn how intentional and focused marketing efforts can elevate your business planning and the secrets to success by planning your business and marketing calendars in advance. Tune in now for actionable strategies to transform your practice! Resources in today's episode: - Episode Website - How Investments Work With Your Clients [Episode 255] - When Marketing Works

Join Jamie in this episode of The Perfect RIA, where she dives deep into the dynamic world of marketing for financial advisors. Discover why keeping the momentum in marketing and content creation is crucial for business planning success. Learn how setting clear objectives and active listening can amplify your marketing efforts. Gain insights into using client vocabulary to connect effectively and capture their questions for content creation. Tune in for expert tips on maintaining consistency in marketing and building a robust content reserve. Elevate your practice with strategic marketing strategies today! When Marketing Works

Dive into the latest episode of The Perfect RIA podcast, where hosts Matthew Jarvis and Micah Shilanski uncover the crucial role of comprehensive planning for financial advisors. Step away from the typical investment-centered mindset and learn why prioritizing cash flow, risk management, taxes, and income should take the lead. Discover how effective communication can shift the focus from investments to holistic financial wellness. In this engaging discussion, Jarvis and Shilanski shed light on the pitfalls of fixating solely on investment details and the power of messaging in shaping client perceptions. Explore strategies to align investments with clients' unique goals and values, steering clear of the 'playing office' syndrome. It's time to take action and implement client-centered strategies that truly make a difference. Tune in now to elevate your practice and serve your clients better! How Investments Work With Your Clients [Episode 255] Resources in today's episode: - Micah Shilanski: Website | LinkedIn - Matt Jarvis: Website | LinkedIn - One-Page Plan Masterclass

In this Follow-Up Friday episode, Amber is recapping this week’s highlights and action items, focusing on optimizing client meetings, communication, and value-driven planning. Matt and Michael stressed the significance of a structured client onboarding process, detailing its pivotal role in ensuring success for both advisors and clients while also outlining key steps and meeting protocols. Jamie explored tax planning strategies and advocated for collaborative efforts with CPAs to offer holistic financial advice. She emphasizes the importance of obtaining client authorization letters and shares practical tips for maximizing the value derived from 1099s. Throughout the discussion, effective communication emerges as a cornerstone, underscoring its role in delivering tailored solutions and nurturing enduring client relationships. Resources in today's episode: - Episode Website - Masterclass Sneak Peek Part 2: Prospect Process and Client Onboarding [Episode 254] - Creating Value Adds from the Tax Return

In this episode, Jamie shares invaluable insights for navigating the complexities of tax season while delivering unparalleled value to clients. Advocating for the strategic utilization of surge periods, she emphasizes the importance of dedicated time blocks for meeting clients and ensuring their needs are met comprehensively, alongside prioritizing client information security through secure portals and encryption protocols. Listeners will discover the power of collaboration with CPAs, fostering holistic financial advice and optimizing tax strategies through a clear differentiation between tax advice and planning. Jamie offers practical tips for implementing value-added services, including a comprehensive 1099 checklist, setting clear client deadlines, and utilizing structured homework sheets, all while emphasizing the importance of spot-checking information accuracy and crafting compelling net worth reports to resonate deeply with clients. Creating Value Adds from the Tax Return

In this Masterclass sneak peek episode, Matt and Micah unveil their masterful approach to client onboarding, offering a glimpse into their proven strategies. They underscore the significance of structured processes and transparent communication in fostering client trust and satisfaction. Micah delineates his method, which involves distinct meetings tailored to estate planning, risk management, retirement income, investments, and taxes, ensuring comprehensive coverage of client needs. Meanwhile, Matt prioritizes swiftly integrating clients into the standard client rotation while tackling essential financial planning aspects. Throughout their discussion, the duo highlights the paramount importance of effective communication and delivering tangible value to clients at every step of the onboarding journey. Remember to email lifestyle@theperfectria.com so you don’t miss this, or any, masterclass release Masterclass Sneak Peek Part 2: Prospect Process and Client Onboarding [Episode 254] Resources in today's episode: - Matt Jarvis: Website | LinkedIn - Micah Shilanski: Website | LinkedIn - Don’t miss out on our upcoming Prospect Process Masterclass. Contact lifestyle@theperfectria.com to stay informed.

In this recap episode, Amber shares the discussion between Matt and Kelly Clements on the correlation between a healthy marriage and a thriving business, the concept of the ambition gap, and how entrepreneurs can integrate their spouse into their business. She’s also recapping Jamie’s episode on the importance of radical candor and accountability in client relationships. Resources in today's episode: - Episode Website - Nurturing Relationships as an Entrepreneur with Guest Kelly Clements [Episode 253] - How Are You Accountable When You Make a Client Mistake? - Join us for TPR LIVE on September 25th!

In this episode, Jamie discusses the importance of surge in her financial advisory practice and how it helps them deliver deep-focus work. The conversation then shifts to the benefits of having a hybrid office, the value of hiring military wives and dependents, and the positive impact they have on their team. Jamie then shares the importance of accountability and radical candor in their office culture, especially when mistakes are made. She emphasizes the need for transparency and accountability for mistakes to maintain client trust and satisfaction. How Are You Accountable When You Make a Client Mistake? Resources in today's episode: - Surge Masterclass - Radical Candor by Kim Scott

In this episode, Matthew is joined by author and coach, Kelly Clements about the challenges faced by entrepreneurs in maintaining a healthy work-life balance and nurturing their relationships. Kelly shares her personal experiences as an entrepreneur and partner, highlighting the importance of play and shared activities in strengthening relationships. She emphasizes the need for entrepreneurs to view their family as their greatest asset and to avoid treating their spouse as an employee. Kelly also discusses the concept of the unhealthy alpha and provides insights on how to identify and shift away from unhealthy alpha traits, as well as the term breadcrumbs to the muse and how they can enhance relationships. Nurturing Relationships as an Entrepreneur with Guest Kelly Clements [Episode 253] Resources in today's episode: - Matt Jarvis: Website | LinkedIn - Kelly Clements: Website | LinkedIn - Grow Your Business Without Growing Apart: Book | Course - Steven Kotler Flow

In this recap episode, Amber discusses the importance of advisors viewing themselves as business owners and looking at their practice from a business perspective. She explores the topic of outgrowing clients and the challenges of segmenting clients based on service levels and fees. The conversation then shifts to the value that advisors provide and the client's choice to pay for that value. Finally, she explores the topic of receiving and delivering criticism, emphasizing the importance of constructive feedback and open communication. Resources in today's episode: - Episode Website - Upgrade, Graduate, or Just Keep Playing Office [Episode 252] - How To Take A Hit

In this episode, Jamie Shilanski discusses how to receive criticism, especially when it is delivered publicly. She emphasizes the importance of resilience and choosing when to respond and when to let criticism go. Jamie also explores the impact of online public reviews and the vulnerability that comes with success. She shares personal experiences with criticism, which led to this episode, and offers strategies for delivering and receiving constructive feedback. How To Take A Hit Resources in today's episode: - The Perfect RIA Podcast on Apple

In this episode, Matt and Micah discuss the importance of taking action in your financial planning practice. They emphasize the need for advisors to think like business owners and make decisions that align with their core beliefs and values. They run through the challenges of segmenting clients and the potential pitfalls of doing so. Listen in as they provide practical advice on how to analyze your client list and identify red, yellow, and green clients and offering opportunities for clients to upgrade. Upgrade, Graduate, or Just Keep Playing Office [Episode 252] Resources in today's episode: - Matt Jarvis: Website | LinkedIn - Micah Shilanski: Website | LinkedIn | Twitter - Join us in September for TPR LIVE!

In this episode, Amber recaps this week’s highlights. She reminds us why critical thinking and pushback are important in the financial industry and why advisors need to question traditional practices and ensure that they deliver value to clients. There’s a balance between providing certainty and acknowledging the market's uncertainty. Amber also recaps why you need to filter the advice you receive—whether you need to walk away from information or check your ego so you can improve your personal growth. Resources in today's episode: - Episode Website - Economic Commentary - You Can’t Say That!

In this episode of Worlds to Conquer, Jamie discusses the importance of candid conversations and not being easily offended. She emphasizes the value of seeking knowledge and experience from those who have walked the path before. Jamie shares the story of how The Perfect RIA podcast started and why you need to find others who have the same growth mindset as you, as well as be open to improvement and constructive criticism. You Can’t Say That! Resources in today's episode: - Delivering Massive Value

In this episode, Matt and Micah discuss the importance of critical thinking in financial planning and the necessity of being open to challenging discussions within your practice. They advocate for assessing whether your current strategies truly deliver substantial value to your clients and that trying to predict the markets is akin to predicting the lottery; instead, advisors need to focus on long-term economic trends and how they impact clients' goals. Listen in as they highlight the importance of balancing knowledge and translating that into actionable advice Economic Commentary Resources in today's episode: - Matt Jarvis: Website | LinkedIn - Micah Shilanski: Website | LinkedIn | Twitter - A Random Walk Down Wall Street - Stocks for the Long Run

In this week's recap episode of The Perfect RIA, Amber Kuhn shares the crucial aspect of delivering massive value in prospect meetings and the importance of shifting the focus from the Advisor to the prospect's goals and concerns. Amber emphasizes the need to truly listen to prospects, understanding their unique situations, and tailoring solutions accordingly. Furthermore, Amber explores the pivotal role of documentation in the financial advisory industry. Proper documentation not only ensures compliance but also serves as a valuable tool for both advisors and clients to track progress, revisit agreements, and mitigate misunderstandings. She shares insights on how meticulous documentation can help advisors avoid mistakes and uphold professionalism in their practice. Resources in today's episode: - Episode Website - Throwback: Show Me The Beef! [Episode 250] - Not Documented, Not Done

In this episode, Jamie Shilanski dives deep into the critical role of documentation in the success of any business. Drawing from the experience of Shilanski Associates, Jamie showcases the transformative power of comprehensive CRM systems like Infinity and outlines the SOAP method for effective note-taking. By implementing effective documentation practices and leveraging advanced CRM systems, businesses can enhance efficiency, mitigate risks, and elevate client service standards. Not Documented, Not Done

As an advisor, you get the opportunity to transform someone’s life in just one hour. But the key is to make sure you're spending that hour as wisely as possible. So today, Matthew and Micah dive into what to do in prospect meetings and how to improve the value you add during those meetings. Listen in as the guys discuss some of the common issues that pop up in prospect meetings, as well as how you can avoid key mistakes. You'll get tips on listening better, understanding your clients' needs, and delivering value from the start. They also share from their own experiences with prospects to help you get a better understanding of how to block out distractions and get to the core issues your client needs to address. Throwback: Show Me The Beef! [Episode 250] Resources in today's episode: - Matt Jarvis: Website | LinkedIn - Micah Shilanski: Website | LinkedIn | Twitter - Estate Planning Masterclass - Junior Advisor Masterclass

In this episode, Amber discusses the key takeaways from a recent podcast episode with a special guest, David Gow. David and Matt explored the role of a financial advisor and the importance of building trust with clients. David emphasizes the power of asking the right questions and understanding each client's unique needs. Amber also shares insights from Jamie on Surge scheduling and the importance of being intentional with client meetings. She highlights the need for recovery and setting boundaries to avoid fatigue. Resources in today's episode: - Episode Website - Client Relationships And Connections With Guest David Gow [Episode 249] - How Surge Fails - Join us for TPR LIVE on September 25th! - Looking for more virtual training? Sign up for our Junior Advisor Masterclass