How well we communicate can make or break a relationship.
Misunderstandings, resentment, frustration– we’ve all been there.
Guess what? This applies to the client-financial advisor relationship, too!
Communication plays a MAJOR role in financial planning.
We prioritize this with our clients for two reasons: it ensures accuracy and gives us information about your needs and goals.
Trust & Connection Are Key
Trust is a big deal when it comes to our client relationships. But in order to build trust, we first need to make sure that we’re truly connecting.
Sounds simple enough, but this can actually be intimidating for many people.
The good news is that connection just takes practice. And we have some tips to help!
Learning The RULEs of Engagement
Whether you’re a natural or need a little guidance, the RULE approach can boost your communication skills.
RULE is rooted in motivational interviewing, which is a therapy practice model that’s evolved beyond counseling. It’s moved into other allied professions like - you guessed it - financial planning.
This is a powerful communication strategy that can transform the way you interact with your advisor!
We recently sat down with marriage and family therapist Ashley Quamme to learn more about the concept of RULE. Ashley works with financial planners and teaches us how to think differently about our work. Here’s what she taught us.
The RULE Acronym Stands For…
Resist the righting reflex
Understand your client’s motivation
Listen actively
Empathize genuinely
These principles can help financial planners go beyond the numbers.
Resisting the Righting Reflex
The “righting reflex” is the urge to immediately jump in and solve the problem.
But that isn’t always what people need! Sometimes you just want to vent, right?
If you’ve ever found yourself saying, “I don’t need you to fix it, I just want you to listen!!”-- you get it.
It’s okay to let your advisor know what you need and expect from the conversation.
Understanding Your Perspective
Your advisor needs to understand where you’re coming from in order to help.
What motivates your financial decisions? Do they know? Do you feel comfortable telling them?
By being open with your advisor, you’re giving them an opportunity to offer advice that resonates more deeply with your values and goals.
Active Listening
Think about the cherished relationships in your life.
Your conversations aren’t just hearing what the other person says, but truly understanding their concerns, fears, and aspirations.
That’s active listening, and it’s an important trait in an advisor. You deserve to feel heard and valued on your financial journey.
Empathy Is Everything
Empathy allows us to connect with each other on a human level. This is huge! We care about our clients’ overall well-being, not just their financial success.
Whether you’re a financial planner or someone seeking financial advice, applying the RULE approach can transform your conversations. It’s about creating a partnership where both parties feel understood, respected, and aligned in their goals.
Are you ready to enhance your financial communication? Tune in to our Women’s Money Wisdom podcast episode 214 to hear more.
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