They like to hear:
- “Roth, Bitcoin, Mutual Funds”—by being specific, Purcell says clients demonstrate they want to take an active role in planning for their financial future.
- “My spouse and I would like to meet with you”—when clients mention their partner at the outset, that’s a very good thing as it helps unify couples.
- “I’m nervous about [fill in the blank]”—this honesty about fears shows healthy communication.
Two things Purcell says FAs hate to hear:
- “Let’s wait until X milestone to save”—good intentions aren’t enough. “Great financial planning requires implementation,” she says
- I heard from my parents/grandparents/coworker that I should do X with my money”—every person’s financial plan should be unique to them.