Money Talks: Alex Ferguson, Acumen Investment Solutions
How long have you been in the financial services industry, and what initially drew you to this profession?
Four years - a change from the sporting industry for flexibility and career progression.
Reflecting on your experience, what significant changes have you observed in the industry since you began your career?
Increasing regulation.
If you could go back and advise your younger self when starting out in this field, what key piece of advice would you offer?
Not to underestimate the challenge to become qualified / Chartered.
What strategies or approaches do you find most effective in building strong, long-term relationships with clients?
Developing a personal rapport, asking questions about them to develop a two-way relationship and trust.
In your opinion, what are the most pressing challenges facing financial advisers today, and how do you navigate them in your practice?
Increasing regulation, ageing client base, costs. Ensure practices are up to date so don't fall foul of any regulatory changes. Ask for referrals if appropriate, but many coming from years of relationships. Costs are inevitable, so it's making sure that products used provide value for money.
Can you share a particularly memorable success story or client interaction that reaffirmed your commitment to this profession?
I supported a referral without charge through a very lengthy complaint with a provider. Knowing her situation, I just wanted to ensure she got the best possible support to improve her financial situation, which was very bleak. Making a difference is one of the most satisfying parts of the job.
With the rise of digital tools and platforms, how do you integrate technology into your advisory services?
You can’t use them all, so it’s about being selective about the best ones to suit the business and how they can support you as the adviser and the client.
What do you see as the key issue on the horizon for the industry?
Regulation and levy costs.
How will you leave your mark? (Either professionally or personally)
Just being honest, open and professional to manage the objectives and goals of clients.
And we end on perhaps the most important question …
What's your go-to Karaoke song?
Don’t look back in anger, Oasis.
#LeaveYourMark
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