Impact Communications Company Site

Wednesday, February 8, 2012

A Video Message from Marie Swift

Cornerstone Revolutions and MacroRisk Analytics Partner to Help Advisors Improve Investment Performance

WHY IS THIS IMPORTANT TO FINANCIAL ADVISORS AND ALLIED INSTITUTIONS?

G. Michael Phillips, Ph.D., of Macrorisk Analytics and Mary Hepler of Cornerstone Revolutions offer additional insights in this informative audio interview.


PORTLAND -- February 8, 2012 - Cornerstone Revolutions, Inc., provider of the PowerAdvisor portfolio management system, and MacroRisk Analytics have formed an exclusive alliance to offer an integrated, robust and affordable set of tools to help advisors improve investment performance and risk-exposure in different economic conditions.

“We want to offer our advisors more than just basic analytics,” said Cornerstone President and CEO Mary Hepler. “We want them to have tools to proactively adjust client investments to reduce exposure to economic risk, and MacroRisk Analytics is the leader in that field.”

MacroRisk Analytics’ patented system is able to account for over 90 percent of price variation in most stocks, mutual funds, and indices. Its models of asset prices demonstrate excellent fit to the data and consistency over time. The models can identify asset classes and individual securities that are currently facing favorable or unfavorable economic conditions. With client portfolios and benchmarks updated daily in Cornerstone Revolution’s PowerAdvisor portfolio management system, advisors can now use the MacroRisk analytics features to easily obtain risk assessments and optimize investment strategies based on macro-economic factors.

“Advisors have traditionally used fundamental and technical analysis to help their clients make investment choices,” said MacroRisk Analytics CEO G. Michael Phillips, Ph.D. “But in today’s world of highly volatile markets affected daily by changes in the economy, it’s imperative for advisors to also understand the economic risks associated with various investments. Our research, based on empirical data and proven methodologies, enables advisors to structure their clients’ portfolios to take advantage of current and forecast economic changes.”

Cornerstone and MacroRisk began exploring an alliance in the summer of 2011, recognizing the powerful solution they could jointly offer financial advisors. “The formal agreement progressed quickly,” said Hepler. “It was obvious that we shared the same corporate values - a commitment to service, flexibility and responsiveness in all that we offer.”

About Cornerstone Revolutions, Inc.
Cornerstone Revolutions, Inc. is a software and service firm specializing in user-friendly, affordable applications and support for independent investment professionals. Cornerstone has offices located in Troy, Michigan and Portland, Oregon. For more information visit http://www.poweradvisortools.com or call (503) 968-7202. 



About MacroRisk Analytics
MacroRisk Analytics is a division of the Center for Computationally Advanced Statistical Techniques (c4cast.com, Inc.), located in Pasadena, CA. The Center was founded in 1999 and offers an extensive collection of proprietary tools, forecasts, and advanced statistical techniques for financial and economic analysis. For more information, contact Phil Hahn, Director of Marketing and Sales at (888) 502-3605 or visit http://www.macrorisk.com.

Wednesday, February 1, 2012

New Insights from Industry Experts

Kathleen Rehl on Honeycomb Marketing


Allan Slider on Building a Strong Online Presence



MP3 File

Matthew Bellis on Generating Warm Introductions to Qualified Prospects


Peter Montoya on the new TechLeaders Conference for IBD Executives in March 2012



MP3 File

Thursday, January 26, 2012

See you in Orlando at the TD Ameritrade annual conference!

A video message from Marie Swift - here's how to find me at the conference: Stop by the Social Media Lab. Watch this short video message now.


If you are not registered yet, sign up now: https://wwws.tdameritradeconferences.com/national/20120201A/

Follow Marie Swift on Twitter
Like Impact Communications on Facebook

Saturday, January 7, 2012

Technology Conference for Independent Broker/Dealers Gives Management Teams Unique Opportunity to Experience the Latest and Greatest Technology Solutions

Investment Advisor Magazine and Peter Montoya Announce First-Ever TechLeaders Conference in Dallas March 19-21, 2012

Investment Advisor magazine, one of the largest advisor-read publications in the independent investment management world, and Peter Montoya, a nationally-known financial services industry veteran, have partnered to produce the TechLeaders 2012 Conference, the only conference focused exclusively on technology resources for Broker/Dealer management.


The inaugural conference will be held March 19-21, 2012 at the Omni Mandalay Hotel at Las Colinas in Irving/Dallas, Texas. The conference boasts 30++ presentations from technology firms who will be showcasing the newest and most innovative solutions in the industry today. Montoya founded the TechLeaders Conference in order to address the need for quality programming and well-planned agendas focused exclusively on the many ways technology can solve the issues faced by broker-dealers and registered representatives in the financial services industry.

“There are tons of products in the marketplace whose aim is to assist Broker/Dealers and advisors, but there is a finite amount of time that these busy professionals have to devote to the process of figuring out what’s right for them at the place they are in their careers,” said Montoya. “The TechLeaders Conference will allow these professionals to have an opportunity to kick the tires and figure out what works for them and how they can seamlessly integrate these solutions into their businesses. This is the one place where they can quickly see everyone and everything in the marketplace,” Montoya said.

The 2012 TechLeaders conference will be supported by discussion groups, online user forums, and direct access to the technology vendors creating new solutions. The goal is to create a dialog through which new products can evolve in direct response to user need.

In addition, Investment Advisor magazine will be releasing the Broker/Dealer Technology Survey Results during an awards ceremony at the conference.

In an effort to truly utilize leading edge technology, TechLeaders will also host a virtual exhibit area where those unable to attend the conference will have access material about sponsors and their products.

Read full news release.

Great audio interview with Peter Montoya and Marie Swift:

Listen now.

Attention all IBD home office staff! 
Register to attend by March 1, 2012 and glean substantial savings. Details here: http://www.techleadersconference.com/location-registration.php

 

Only at TechLeaders will you:

- Hear the results of the very first ever Broker/Dealer Technology Survey—get ahead of the competition in determining what's working and what solutions your Representatives are looking for

- Benefit from conference-only pricing on the newest, most asked-for software, hardware, and productivity solutions

- Maximize time spent out of the office with a targeted agenda and the ability to spend quality face-time with solution providers—without distraction

Attention tech companies! 
Would you like to present your tech and productivity solutions to dozens of IBD executives and home office staff people? Sponsor the Tech Leaders Conference and gain exclusive access to these VIPs.

Download sponsor package now!
Mastering the Art of Social Media
   Marie Swift and other experts give advice on social media use>
46 47
Mastering Social Media - Research Mag - August 2011

Read now.

Saturday, December 31, 2011

Charles Sizemore, publisher of The Sizemore Investment Letter (http://www.sizemoreletter.com) and Jeff Reeves, editor of InvestorPlace.com (http://www.investorplace.com) talk about the InvestorPlace.com stock picking contests for 2011 and 2012.

Find out how Charles Sizemore won the contest for Best Stock in 2011 with Visa -- up a whopping 58% in 2011 -- and why Sizemore has chosen Turkcell as the best stock to own in 2012.

Listen to this insightful 16 minute audio interview now:

Read corresponding news release here:
COMING SOON 

More great advice from Charles Sizemore via this WSJ.com video interview. Sizemore says "Buy Germany." 
 

Friday, October 28, 2011

"The Dull Investor" shares insights with members of the Garrett Planning Network at the 11th Annual Retreat

video

Here is a "highlights reel" of Allan Roth's opening keynote presentation for the Garrett Planning Network, held October 29-30 in Denver, Colorado. A record-attendance audience cheered and clapped enthusiastically at several moments during his speech. Learn more about Allan and his very impressive background at www.DareToBeDull.com.

Tuesday, October 4, 2011

MARKETING THAT WORKS FOR FINANCIAL ADVISORS TODAY - POST YOUR IDEAS HERE

In a few weeks I’ll be speaking at the Financial Advisors Money Show. My topic: Marketing That Works for Financial Advisors Today. I have a number of success stories to share with the audience that will gather in Chicago on October 19, 2011, but I’m also looking for a few new success stories to add.

If you are doing something in the way of marketing, public relations, social media and online visibility, or have perfected a sure-fire method for generating quality introductions, I’d like to hear from you – and I’m offering a $360 prize to the top three contributors.

There are a couple ways you can submit your success stories to me:

1.     Visit my personal blog, http://www.MarieSwift.com. There you can read about The Money Show for Financial Advisors, including my marketing presentation and Ric Edelman’s practice management presentation. Simply place a comment on that blog entry and I will get a note from the BlogSpot system letting me know to take a look. No one else will see your comment unless I “release it” and make it “live” on the blog – so if you want your name withheld or don’t want your success story to show up “live” on my Best Practices in the Financial Services Industry blog, just put that in your post and I will honor your request. Be sure to put your name, phone number, email address and website URL in your post so I can contact you with any questions and/or for additional conversation.

2.     Send your contact information and comments to me via my assistant MaryEllenBanta@ImpactCommunications.org. Mary Ellen will make sure I see your contribution. I’ll be in touch if I need more information or want to dialog a bit.

PRIZES FOR THE TOP THREE CONTRIBUTIONS

In addition to potentially using your marketing idea in my speeches and/or future articles for http://www.Financial-Planning.com, my team and I will be looking for the best three marketing ideas or success strategies submitted.

I’ll be sending the top three contributors a certificate good for a free Marketing Evaluation (a $360 value). A professional marketing consultant from Impact Communications will review your Web site and marketing materials. Then during a consulting call with you and/or your staff, your Impact Marketing Consultant will provide professional recommendations and insights on how to improve your overall look and feel, marketing message, target marketing campaigns, etc. 

Post your marketing idea now!

To read a Marketing Success Story:

Enter "Marketing Maven blog" or "Marie Swift" in the search box and all my recent articles will show up in a list. Suggestion: Read the one dated 10/5/11 on Becoming The Heritage Planning Professional in Your Community.



Wednesday, September 28, 2011

Marie Swift and NAPFA invite you to:

Monday, September 26, 2011

 

Register Free at: 
Given the economic fallout of the past couple of years, there has never been a time in recent history when so many prospects are looking for a new advisor. In today's hyper competitive landscape, you need to find unique ways to differentiate yourself from the competition. The old methods do not allow you to demonstrate your relevant value to your clients, and are not very effective any more. In this keynote presentation, marketing guru, Marie Swift, will share stories of advisors who are gaining market share through online visibility and social media strategies, public relations and credibility marketing, purpose-driven prospecting, event marketing, and much more. Don't miss this fast-paced session as Swift provides simple yet effective ideas for attracting the kind of new clients and valuable assets that can propel your firm to the next level of success!

Special Bonus for Attendees!

Scan your conference pass (or take a photo of it with your smart phone) and send it to TeresaLaw@ImpactCommunications.org. Put in your email subject line: SPECIAL MONEYSHOW OFFER.

That will entitle you to receive one of the following bonuses:

FREE Marketing Evaluation (a $360 value)
A professional marketing consultant from Impact Communications will review your Web site and marketing materials. Then during a consulting call with you and/or your staff, your Impact Marketing Consultant will provide professional recommendations and insights on how to improve your overall look and feel, marketing message, target marketing campaigns, etc. Get 2 free hours of consulting time, compliments of Impact Communications and The MoneyShow.

Learn more about The Impact Consulting Team: www.impactcommunications.org/ourteam.html

- OR -

$300 off the normal price of Media Mastery University
This dynamic, group training and empowerment program offered by Impact Communications will teach you everything you need to know to succeed in the fast-paced world of media relations. You'll also receive a targeted media list, a 90-page Media Manual, dozens of templates for creating your own news releases and pitches, and much more. This 3-month class is conducted virtually so you do not need to travel to a venue to participate.

See full program details:
www.impactcommunications.org/groupprograms.html


Friday, September 9, 2011



Many of the industry's best and brightest advisors have embraced a financial life planning methodology. Well known planners such as Rick Kahler, Marty Kurtz, Cicily Maton and Michael Kay all endorse the Money Quotient program. I'm a big fan so wanted to make sure you knew about the opportunity to participate in the following two training courses.

If you are on the East Coast, this is a wonderful opportunity to get the training and experience you need without traveling to Money Quotient's West Coast offices!

Fundamentals of Financial Life Planning
October 21, 22 and 23


This intensive 3-day course covers both the philosophical foundation and the practical application of the M.Q. model of Financial Life Planning. Gain hands on experience while learning how to integrate and custom-fit the M.Q. tools and processes to enhance your practice and strengthen your client relationships.

Increase your Financial Life Planning skills, knowledge and confidence. Plan now to participate in this in-depth training seminar.




Advanced Training: Client Communications & Discovery

October 24 & 25

Money Quotient will also conduct a 2-day Advanced Training, "Principles of Client Communication & Discovery," on October 24th & 25th. Completion of the "Fundamentals of Financial Life Planning" course is a prerequisite for attending the Advanced Training.

Visit www.MoneyQuotient.org to register or learn more!

Thursday, August 4, 2011

LOOKING FOR THE ULTIMATE GIFT FOR YOUR CLIENTS?
Consider a Legacy Profile written by award-winning journalist and celebrity profile writer Jane Wollman Rusoff!

As a financial advisor, you are always looking for ways to add value and bond with your clients. Here is one of the most creative and insightful ways I've found to help you do just that.

Listen to this 17 minute interview as I speak with Jane Wollman Rusoff and get her thoughts on building trust and affinity with clients. Jane has developed a special offering just for financial advisors so that you, too, can provide a wonderful gift to your most important clients.

A Legacy Profile starts with a personal conversation, over the telephone or in person. Jane has an immense talent for drawing people out. The telephone or in-person conversations with Jane are recorded, transcribed and edited by Jane. The oral history becomes much more than a transcript, though, as Jane -- who is a veteran journalist -- exercises her judgment to create a Legacy Profile that serves as a short autobiography and legacy document for your client.

The client's Legacy Profile is likely to be one of the most cherished documents you can ever provide for them. Your clients will be pleased with your thoughtfulness. You'll get new insights into their values, attitudes and goals. The Legacy Profile will help you understand, in a life planning type of way, what your clients want out of life. And the process could even open the door to your meeting with the next generation in your client's life.

I know from personal experience how powerful and wonderful these Legacy Profiles written by Jane Wollman Rusoff are. My family and I hired Jane to write a book length autobiography that captured my father-in-law's most important life stories. This digital history of his life will outlive him and honor his memory once he is gone. It will help generations to come understand their family legacy.

While you may not wish to provide a book length document to your clients, every advisor can afford and should consider providing a Legacy Profile to their best clients.

You can learn more at www.FamilyStarProductions.com. 

LISTEN TO THIS INTERVIEW NOW:

Wednesday, July 20, 2011

Special Invitation from Marie Swift and Matt Bellis 
You are cordially invited to enjoy two free consulting calls with Matt Bellis, compliments of Marie Swift. There is no cost or obligation to continue on with Matt. We guarantee you will get value from the first 2 calls!

Listen to this!


MP3 File
 
Marie Swift interviews Matt Bellis about his system, the power of story telling and being a giver. 20 minutes well spent! 

Learn how you can fill your pipeline with ongoing, predictable, quality activity from inside the top 20% of your client base using the Matthew Bellis Warm Introduction System™


To sign up for your 2 FREE consulting sessions, contact Matt Bellis at: http://www.matthewbellis.com/.

Saturday, July 9, 2011

Social Media Boot Camp with Marie Swift and Special Guests

Date:  Saturday, September 24, 2011
Location:  Fairfield University Dolan School of Business / Fairfield, CT

Sponsored by:
FPA CT - Fairfield County Chapter
FPA Greater Hudson Valley Chapter
Fairfield University

What Are You Doing to Build Your Online Presence Using Web 2.0 and Multi-Media?

What you do online may help beef up your bottom line!


Are you a business owner, financial advisor or service professional who's wondered if you are "missing the boat" online?

Have you ever wondered what the real ROI is on adding multi-media and/or social media to your online brand building strategy?

Are you totally happy with what comes up when people "Google you"?

The truth is: Every business professional needs to be online, building their public persona and promoting their business!
 
Why? Because that's where your clients, prospective clients and strategic partners are going to check you out. 
 
The truth is: You can't afford NOT to be building a strong presence online. If you are not seen in a favorable way when people hit your website or do an online search you will not be seen as a viable resource.


"Don't miss this important workshop! It may be quite some time before we'll be able to get Marie Swift and Andy Gluck back here in our region to do the Web 2.0 and Social Media Boot Camp again!"
- Mark Brownstein, President, FPA Greater Hudson Valley Chapter ~
 
* * * ACT NOW!  REGISTER TODAY FOR THE CT BOOT CAMP! * * *
Early Bird Registration Deadline Ends 8/24/11!
For more details and to register, visit www.fpact.org.

Go to www.fpact.org to download program info and registration form.

Please note that registrations after 8/24/11 must be received by 9/10/11. After 9/10/11, please contact Lori Somerville at 877-777-0600 or fairfield@fpact.org to check space availability.

* * * ACT NOW!  REGISTER TODAY FOR THE CT BOOT CAMP! * * *

Learn how to Build Your Online Presence, whether or not you can or want to use social networking tools such as LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, blogging and YouTube.

This jam-packed day will give you newfound knowledge of the major Web 2.0 and social media tools "out there". Whether you choose to use them or not, you MUST be aware of what they are and how your clients - and competitors - are using them to gather information and make informed business decisions.

You'll do a self-assessment using Marie Swift's Online Diagnostic tool to determine where the gaps are in your online strategy. You'll be able to quickly see what your peers are doing online that you're not and what the next steps are for you.

Marie Swift, a marketing expert and founder of Impact Communications, will provide a 4-step Success Plan for Building Your Online Presence. She'll share what other business owners, financial advisors and service professionals are doing to gain visibility online and how they tie-it to real-world results.

Andy Gluck, a marketing expert and founder of Advisor Products, will tell you how to harness the power of the Web using multi-media, keywords and cross-linking strategies. He'll show you how to get the highest page rankings when Google you or search for keywords online.

Drew King from Front Center Media will show you how you can produce a custom lifestyle magazine using their turnkey system.

Allan Slider of Financial Advice Network will be on hand to answer questions about online visibility tools.

Other special guest presenters are being confirmed now.

Those who elect to stay on for the afternoon session will actually build a blog, record a video message, record and audio message, and upload their newly created multi-media clips to their new blog site.  

Special Bonus Webinar with Marie Swift and Leia Farmer!

Marie Swift, of Impact Communications, and Leia Farmer, Deputy Chief Compliance Officer with Securities America, will be offering a free educational webinar on Friday, July 15, at 10:00 a.m. EST. If you would like to attend this FREE bonus webinar, register here now:  Space is limited.  https://www1.gotomeeting.com/register/277255833


* * * ACT NOW!  REGISTER TODAY FOR THE CT BOOT CAMP! * * *
Early Bird Registration Deadline Ends 8/24/11!
For more details and to register, visit www.fpact.org.

Go to www.fpact.org to download program info and registration form.

Please note that registrations after 8/24/11 must be received by 9/10/11. After 9/10/11, please contact Lori Somerville at 877-777-0600 or fairfield@fpact.org to check space availability.

* * * ACT NOW!  REGISTER TODAY FOR THE CT BOOT CAMP! * * *

Watch this informative video! In an effort to beef up their online presence, many financial advisors, business owners and service professionals are turning to Web 2.0 and social media. But can this help your business? Financial Planning magazine's AdvisorTV film crew reports.


More info from Marie Swift: www.socialmediabootcampBLOG.com.
DID YOU MISS THE WEBINAR ON JULY 15, 2011?
MAXIMIZING YOUR ONLINE PRESENCE IN A SMART, COMPLIANT WAY

WEBINAR SPONSORED BY: 
FPA Fairfield CT, FPA Hudson Valley, Fairfield University, NAPFA, Securities America* and Impact Communications  

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD SLIDES 
 










CLICK PLAYER BAR TO LISTEN TO RECORDING 

SESSION DESCRIPTION: 
Having a good website is mandatory in today’s digital, online world. Multimedia such as podcasts, interactive graphics, and flash movie segments that combine music, narration, images and video clips can make your website come alive. Social media sites such as blogs, Twitter, Facebook, Ning and LinkedIn can help you connect in new, exciting ways with current and prospective clients. But creating or expanding an online presence that will grow your practice requires clear objectives and a plan that delivers on those objectives. This session will cover the fundamentals –  “and then some.”  

In this recorded one-hour webinar, you will:
 
• See colorful examples of what other advisors have done in the digital world
 
• Learn about Spider Marketing – and how that can help generate more traffic to your primary website
 
• Understand what the ROI is likely to be  
 
• See why it is more important than ever for you to embrace one or more of the social networking platforms
 
• Hear from a compliance expert on the do’s and don’ts related to social media use
 
• Get advice from a marketing expert on where to start if you’re late to the party
 
• Hear suggestions on what to do next if you’ve already dipped your toe into the water
 
In a nutshell, your instructors will cover:
 
• Best practices for creating a powerful online presence
 
• How to add multimedia to online sites
 
• When and how to add social media to your strategy  
 
• How to work most effectively with compliance
 
• What the FINRA guidelines say and how to protect yourself from regulator scrutiny
 
• The best and easiest ways to get started
 
• How to get help if you’d rather not do it alone

Your instructors: 
Marie Swift is President and CEO of Impact Communications, a full-service marketing communications firm serving a select group of independent financial advisors, industry thought-leaders and allied institutions. 

A regular contributor to industry publications such as MorningstarAdvisor, RIABiz.com, AdvisorOne, Research and Financial Planning magazines, industry expert David Drucker calls her a “PR consultant extraordinaire” and featured her firm in “Raising Perceptions,” an article published by Research magazine about the benefits of public relations and credibility marketing. Bob Veres says, “Marie is perhaps the best PR professional in our industry.”  

A popular speaker, Swift has spoken at numerous conferences within the financial services industry. She has received high ratings from participants at various venues including the NFL Players Association, TD Ameritrade, Pershing, Lockwood University, Charles Schwab, Securities America, Financial Network, the Financial Planning Association, the National Association of Personal Financial Advisors and the Garrett Planning Network. 

Swift uses Twitter (http://www.twitter.com/marieswift) and her Best Practices in the Financial Services Industry blog (http://www.marieswift.com) as well as LinkedIn, Ning, multi-media engagement tools and online newswire services to build relationships in the digital realm. 

Learn more about Marie Swift at http://www.impactcommunications.org.  

Leia Farmer is Deputy Chief Compliance Officer with Securities America, Inc., one of the largest independent broker/dealers in the nation.  Leia’s primary responsibilities are to oversee the RIA Compliance and Policies and Procedures teams within Securities America. 
 
During its National Conference in Orlando, Fla., in June 2011, Securities America announced its new social media program, which will allow all of its 1,800 reps to access and post content on Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter in mid-July. Leia was a part of the internal task force that analyzed and selected Securities America's social media compliance solution, and will participate in the social media / compliance training sessions provided by the firm in 2011.  

Under the Securities America program, advisors will need to get static content, such as a profile page or market commentary, pre-approved by the firm’s compliance department. But any communications that are interactive—accepting events, creating groups and posting Tweets and comments that respond to questions—will not require pre-approval before they go live. These types of communications will go through a review process after the content has gone up. 

Leia understands the FINRA guidelines as they pertain to registered representatives and social media use. She will share her insights with the webinar attendees on July 15th.
 
Prior to joining Securities America, Leia worked as the Chief Compliance Officer for Brecek &Young Advisors, Inc., a mid-sized broker/dealer that was acquired by Securities America in 2009. She was also a compliance analyst for E*Trade. In addition to over 11 years of industry experience, Leia has a bachelor’s degree from the University of California Berkeley in Legal Studies and a Master’s Degree in Organizational Management from the University of Phoenix. Leia holds the Series 7, 63, 24, 4, and 66 licenses.  

Learn more about Leia at http://www.securitiesamerica.com. Get practice management tips and learn more about building your online presence at http://www.AdvisorPod.com.  

*Securities America, Inc. is a Registered Broker/Dealer, Member FINRA/SIPC. Advisory services are offered through Securities America Advisors, Inc., a SEC Registered Advisory Firm.

Want to take a deeper dive? 
Attend the next Web 2.0 and Social Media Boot Camp!
 AS SEEN ON ADVISORTV
If you are interested in taking a deeper dive and/or building your online presence during a live, instructor- guided, computer-lab experience led by marketing expert Marie Swift, sign up now to attend one of these live boot camps:


SPONSORED BY FPA AND FAIRFIELD UNIVERSITY
Fairfield, CT - Saturday, September 24, 2011
Learn more at http://www.fpact.org

SPONSORED BY NAPFA
Brooklyn, NY - Monday, October 24, 2011 
Learn more at http://www.napfa.org  

Thursday, June 16, 2011

Marketing and PR Tips for Financial Advisors: a Conversation with Marie Swift and Nicole Coulter

I attended my first Women Advisors Forum in Chicago on June 10, 2010. The following day, I was the guest on Copernicus Radio with host (and veteran journalist) Nicole Coulter. We spoke about marketing and PR for financial advisors, and I shared what happened at the first of many Women Advisors Forums that I would ultimately attend.

Listen now: http://bit.ly/qYIbAR


Listen to internet radio with Copernicus Radio on Blog Talk Radio

Tuesday, May 17, 2011

 Scott Hanson, Co-Founder, Hanson McClain Advisors and Hanson McClain Retirement Network talks about the fiduciary standard and what's best long-term for clients. He also says risk tolerance has changed for clients and that the industry needs to "get it right this time" if we are to restore trust after the erosion caused by recent Wall Street scandals. 

Monday, March 21, 2011

Open Mic Conversation with Ed Jacobson and Michael Kay - Life Planning Realities

Ed Jacobson and Michael Kay had a nice conversation in February 2011. In his monthly Open Mic call, Ed and asked Michael about his new book The Business of Life: An Inside-Out Approach to Building a More Successful Financial Planning Business.

"I was especially impressed by the book's practicality," said Jacobson. "Michael actually talks about what he does with clients. And I am moved by his personal journey from financial professional to financial planner to financial life planner. This book is one of the few that does it all."

In this 50 minute recorded conversation, Ed asks Michael about his professional and personal journey to becoming an "FLP," elicits some case examples, and asks his advice for others who are wondering how to put a toe in the water of this financial life planning "thing."


LISTEN NOW:
About Ed: www.edwardjacobson.com

About Michael: www.thebusinessoflife.net 

Sunday, February 20, 2011

Financial Planning Industry Influentials Debate Issues of the Day - Playback Available "On Demand"

What Have You Done for Me Lately? 
Redefining Your Value as an Advisor Today

On Thursday, January 20, 2011, Marie Swift held a lively Fireside Chat with industry influentials:

 
Bob Veres
Inside Information



Joel Bruckenstein, CFP®
Technology Tools for Today 

Robert Lindner, CFP®
Lindner Capital Advisors 


Michael Kay, CFP®
Financial Focus, LLC

Skip Schweiss
TD Ameritrade Trust Company


Listen to the audio version of the Fireside Chat:
http://www.audioacrobat.com/sa/WrwV88QL

Access the multi-media version of the Fireside Chat:
http://www.brighttalk.com/community/financial-planning/webcast/24289

Continue the conversation here on this blog! Post your questions, comments and observations here.

Monday, February 7, 2011

Going Independent: Things to Consider Before Making the Move - Educational Podcast Available "On Demand"

Podcast - Available "On Demand" 
Going Independent: Things to Consider Before Making the Move

Marie Swift interviews Financial Network Regional Directors:


John Brackett
BAR Financial, LLC



Dave Hubbard
Exemplar Financial Network



Cheryl Chiara, CFA®
Financial Network Investment Corporation


Listen to the round table discussion now.



MP3 File

Read the transcript, if you prefer.

Thursday, January 27, 2011

T3 Technology Conference to Provide Practical Wisdom, Expert Advice

Session Topics will Address Real-Life Productivity Issues

David Drucker and Joel Bruckenstein, two of the financial planning industry's best known leading lights and producers of the 6th Annual "T3" Technology Tools for Today™ Conference, today announced details of conference breakout sessions to be held at the Grand Hyatt Bonaventure Hotel in Weston, FL February 16-19th, 2011.

"We are introducing several new and exciting sessions that reflect changes in the marketplace," said David Drucker. "They will provide participants with guidance and advice for utilizing the latest products and services available. For example, the iPad was an instant hit for entertainment purposes, but it can also be used just as effectively in business. Advisors who are using it productively will share their insights and experiences about how this tool has transformed client meetings and presentations."

"Virtual Work Partners: Outsourcing Done Successfully" will offer practical information about this modern solution for administrative support. Jennifer Goldman with MyVirtualCOO, Stephanie Platt with Financial Services Outsourcing Solutions Inc., and Jessica Riner with Consider it Done! will teach participants about virtual assistants: what they do, best practices for working with them and how they can be used to reduce onsite administrative employee costs.

Oren Chaplin of Norris, McLaughlin & Marcus, P.A. will lead a session on "Practical and Legal Issues Surrounding Technology Service Providers," in which he will discuss some of the legal issues that advisors face when using technology service providers. It will be different from the standard compliance discussion in that he will address real issues that advisors face in their relationships with technology service providers such as ownership of information, protecting against third party claims of infringement and indemnification.

Another session, "Workflow and Process: How to Identify and Incorporate It Into Your CRM," will be a discussion with Ken Golding of Junxure and Deborah Fox of Fox College Funding. "Advisors are hearing more and more that they need to use a robust CRM," Bruckenstein said. "This session will help them assess different ones in the marketplace so that they can choose the right one for them."

In addition to 25 or more breakout sessions, general sessions include presentations by TD AMERITRADE Institutional, Laserfiche and Asset Dedication. For conference registration, sponsorship application and additional details, visit T3's newly revamped website, www.TechnologyToolsForToday.com.

Standard price of $ 375.00 starts on 12/16/2010 and ends on 2/15/2011 at 11:59 p.m. Late/Onsite price of $ 400.00 starts on 2/16/2011 at 12:00 a.m.

Follow the T3 Community at www.Twitter.com/t3fan. Watch a series of short videos from past T3 Conferences and read other important information at www.T3Conference.blogspot.com.

Read full news release: T3 Technology Conference to Provide Practical Wisdom, Expert Advice

Sunday, November 21, 2010

Securities America's Nagengast on Industry Trends for Growth

Jim Nagengast, the CEO of Securities America Corp., chats with Pam Black on November 1, 2010, at Sourcemedia's AdvisorTV in-house studio about volatility in the markets, his firm's distribution system for advisors, and its new emphasis on working with community banks.

Tuesday, November 9, 2010

The Business Of Life - Financial Planning from the Inside Out - with Michael Kay

Michael Kay, author of the forthcoming book The Business of Life: An Inside-Out Approach to a More Successful Financial Planning Practice (AdvisorPress, December 2010) on why so few people know how to communicate when it comes to discussing their finances.

Thursday, October 28, 2010

Marketing That Works for Advisors Today - Advisors Money Show - Join Me!

Check out this panel presentation!

If you'd like to attend the Advisors Money Show in Orlando Nov 17-19, I have 10 FREE FULL CONFERENCE PASSES to give away. Just call my office, Impact Communications, at 913-649-5009 and tell Teresa Law, the lovely lady who'll pick up the phone, that you saw my invitation to call and that you'd like to take me up on my offer to secure a free conference pass.

If all the free passes are gone, you can use this link to register at the very affordable rate of just $99. Your full conference pass includes 2 1/2 days of educational sessions with industry experts on a wide range of topics, sponsor presentations and meals, and access to the exhibit hall with over 80 hand-picked companies such as Lindner Capital Advisors (a money manager / TAMP with a unique investment strategy that includes a Managed Futures component).

Register Today and join Marie Swift for The Advisors MoneyShow Orlando, November 17-19, 2010, at The Peabody Hotel. The timing of this year’s Show is ideal. With clients weary of large investments and the fear of a double-dip recession, now is the most important time for you to attend the Advisors MoneyShow. Discover strategies for managing client portfolios (and yours too) in choppy markets, learn techniques for keeping your current clients, and find out how your business can grow in today’s economy!
 
 

Register Now! Only $99 for full conference pass.

Orlando | November 17 – 19, 2010 • The Peabody Hotel

Below is information on my session - see you there!
Marketing That Works for Advisors Today

Thursday, November 18, 2010 | 11:15 am - 12:30 pm

Given the economic fallout of the past couple of years, there has never been a time in recent history when so many prospects are looking for a new advisor. In today's hyper competitive landscape, you need to find unique ways to differentiate yourself from the competition. The old methods do not allow you to demonstrate your relevant value to your clients, and are not very effective any more. These panelists will detail strategies for attracting the kind of new clients and valuable assets that can propel your firm to the next level of success.



Gregory Sullivan

Marie Swift

Dean Zayed

Michael Zmistowski

Sunday, September 26, 2010

Podcasts from Ellen, Davey, Iverson and Montoya - Listen Now!

Take a few minutes out of your busy day to feed your brain with insights and information from some of the industry’s leading lights.

Marie Swift has been busy interviewing the following thought leaders. Their podcasts and commentary are available here on her “Best Practices” blog.


Listen to:

Brett Ellen, CFP® (mega-producer) talk about building a multi-million dollar financia
l advisory practice






Matt Iverson (BoulevardR) on automating your marketing process and building your reputation online



Peter Montoya (relationship marketing expert) on the best way to attract and retain ideal clients



Feel free to look around - there's much much more here on Marie Swift's "Best Practices in the Financial Services Industry" blog!