What inspired you to become a financial planner?
My parents had financial products and investments but didn’t really understand the purpose of the products. They didn’t have access to proper financial planning and advice. I realised that this is true for a big part of the South African population. This inspired me to become a financial planner to help people with their financial plans, create awareness about proper financial planning and share as much knowledge as possible to help increase financial literacy in our society.
What prompts clients to come to you? Do you have a niche or distinctive value offering?
Most of my clients come to me through referrals. I also get clients reaching out once they have read an article I’ve written. Our
business offers a range of service options that help increase access to advice for many clients.
What do you believe is the most important thing that you do for clients?
The most important thing I do for clients is create a unique and a suitable plan for their needs. This ultimately gives them peace of mind and allows them to live a fulfilling life.
What are the biggest mistakes that you see clients make?
People often think that financial planning is only for those with a lot of money or at a particular stage in life. They don’t realise that it
is something that everyone should do as soon as they start their career. The earlier you start with your financial plan, the better.
I am passionate about increasing financial literacy in our society, and I use social media to drive this.
How do you charge for your services?
Our company offers various service options, each with its own associated fee. These include ongoing wealth management, as well as a once-off plan for a fee and hourly consultations. The options and fees are available on our website.
What role does technology play in your practice?
We use technology to enhance efficiency in our business and to help us remain compliant with all the regulations. It also helps us to remain consistent and deliver excellent service experience to our clients.
How do you utilise social media as a financial planner?
I use social media to share useful information and articles on various financial planning topics. I acknowledge that I will not be able to assist everyone, but I do my best to share useful information to create awareness and give people more information. I am passionate about increasing financial literacy in our society, and I use social media to drive this.
What do you enjoy most about being a financial planner?
I enjoy connecting with people, serving as a sounding board for them and helping them make important decisions. The biggest fulfilment for me is seeing a plan become a reality.
What are the biggest challenges you face as a financial planner?
One of the biggest challenges is helping people see the value of planning early. It’s about making the most of what you have at any stage.
What is the biggest change you have seen in financial planning during your career?
When I started my career, there was a sense that information on financial planning was only known and readily available to financial planners and advisors. That has changed over time, and information has become more readily available on the Internet. It is accessible to everyone. We even have robo-advisors these days.
What’s your one wish for the future of the financial planning profession?
To make professional financial planning and advice more accessible, so more people can get the guidance they need on their financial journey.
