Incorporating Social Media Into Your Marketing and PR Plan

I was pleased to receive a phone call earlier this year from Caitlin Nish, a writer for Dow Jones Newswires Column "Practice Management." Caitlin wanted to know if I was hearing anything from advisors regarding social media and how it was paying off for them. The article below captures some of our conversation. 

In February, I was pleased to spend two full days working in the Social Media Lab for TD Ameritrade Institutional. Thanks to all the advisors who came by my table to share what's been working for them, ask questions and converse. I also presented a 20 minute mini-presentation on Incorporating Social Media into Your Marketing and PR Plan. If you are looking for the slides, you can download them here: http://www.4shared.com/office/8iVlgIXp/TD_National_2012_Social_Media_.html

I was also very pleased to spend a full day with members of the NAPFA South Region, in Atlanta last week. 60+ planners from 10 states came in for the day. We did a lot of great work together, all centered on marketing and business building strategies. A good portion of the afternoon was spent talking about how to build a strong online presence. If you are a NAPFA member who attended that paid workshop and are now looking for those slides, please contact Deidra Fulton, Mark Gibbs or John Gugle and they will forward you a link that will allow you to download the workshop slides. 

Hope you are having a super great week!
Marie Swift

Don't Go Social Alone
PRACTICE MANAGEMENT  / A DOW JONES NEWSWIRES COLUMN

Social media isn't "magic fairy dust"
It should supplement, not replace, traditional marketing for wealth advisers
Snail mail not "back" exactly

By Caitlin Nish
March 2, 2012

NEW YORK -- Social media may be the hot topic for wealth advisers these days, but that doesn't mean they should abandon traditional marketing strategies.

Proponents of social media tout sites like LinkedIn, Twitter and Facebook as an easy way to connect with existing clients and most effective to reach a broad number of prospects. But marketing strategists say social media should only supplement other marketing like hosting a radio show, writing articles for the local newspaper or conducting an in-person educational seminar.

Advisers have always wanted "magic fairy dust" when it comes to marketing, and social media is the latest version, says Marie Swift, chief executive of Kansas City-based Impact Communications Inc. She's encouraging advisers to pick a site or two to try the medium out, "but it's not a replacement for traditional marketing."

In fact, a recent report by research firm Aite Group found that advisers are seeing limited or diminished returns from their use of social media, but most have unrealistic expectations or fail to use it correctly.

"If you're not a good marketer in other channels, you're not going to magically become a good marketer because of social media," says Ron Shevlin, senior analyst at Aite Group.

The report concludes that wealth-management firms should focus on improving advisers' marketing ability in all media.

"If advisers are creating content that is simply more digital noise, they are doing themselves a disservice," Swift says. Building credibility by say, writing an article for a reputable publication like a local newspaper, is more important than ever, she adds.

So is knowing where your clients and prospects are spending their time and how they want to communicate with you. An adviser may be extremely tech-savvy, but that doesn't matter if his clients aren't using social media or want to use it only for their personal lives, notes Maria Marsala, a financial adviser coach in Poulsbo, Wash.

William Howell, a fee-only certified financial planner and CPA in Indianapolis, says he can count on one hand how many Facebook invitations he's received from clients in the past three or four years. Social media isn't "something that we see as high priority for the clients that we serve at this point," says Howell, who does have a LinkedIn profile. "If it does become something that is more noticeable in the future, we'll certainly go in that direction."

Howell's target market is mainly over age 55, nearing retirement or in transition from active work to retirement. And Howell says he's found those clients want to communicate by email, not Facebook or Twitter. Until that changes, he's sticking with a more traditional marketing strategy. He works with accountants and estate planning attorneys to develop referral sources, keeps his website current and does a segment on a local television station a couple of times a year.

An adviser's marketing should be designed to capture attention. And in an increasingly digital world, snail mail may well do that. Maribeth Kuzmeski, founder of Red Zone Marketing in Chicago, won't go so far as to say direct mail, the spam of yesteryear, is back. But it is "becoming more powerful than it has been over the past several years," she says. Sending a client a birthday or anniversary card adds a personal touch, and doing so through real mail can help an adviser stand out, Marsala adds.

-- Caitlin Nish is a reporter for Dow Jones Newswires who covers wealth management.

New Insights from Industry Experts

Kathleen Rehl on Honeycomb Marketing

Allan Slider on Building a Strong Online Presence

Matthew Bellis on Generating Warm Introductions to Qualified Prospects

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

How to Elicit from Feedback from a Client Advisory Board

I've been out and about, attending conferences and speaking with lots of advisors about VALUE - what does it mean to clients and the public given everything that's gone on the past couple of years - and how they are refining their Value Proposition in light of all that?

The audience and panelists at the fi360 Annual Conference last week had some really good ideas on Articulating Your Value as an AIF or AIFA designee. If you are a part of the fi360 community, be sure to go to the designee portal and download my slides and presentation audio recording.

I've been on the discussion boards recently with Members of the Garrett Planning Network talking about Articulating Your Value as a Member of the Garrett Planning Network. So, Garrett Members, you know how to access that conversation.

It was fun meeting members of NAAIM - the National Association of Active Investment Managers - in Orlando on May 3 and discussion how to get started with a Media Relations plan.

More great news - Bob Vere's new white paper report on The Future of Advice is now available for FREE DOWNLOAD at http://www.bobveres.com/. You won't want to miss reading this 109 page missive.

Let the good times roll!

Next week, I host a discussion forum online for Financial-Planning.com - the topic? Articulating Your Value as an Advisor Today. It's free and open to all financial advisors, so do join what I hope will be a robust discussion there. Who knows, maybe I can use your comments in a future article or speech.

FYI I'll be in Chicago next week for the NAPFA National Conference May 19-21. I'm moderating a panel discussion Friday May 21 on What's Working Now: Best Marketing Ideas with 4 accomplished NAPFA members from various sized firms. Looking forward to seeing old friends and new there.

Then in June, I'll be speaking twice (Power of PR / Ask the Media Stars is presentation #1 and Redefining Your Value as an Independent Financial Advisor is presentation #2) at Securities America's annual conference in Huntington Beach June 2-8 and then at Pershing Insite on June 11 (the topic there is Redefining Your Value as an RIA Today).

So ... back to the interactions I've been having with Garrett Members. Sheryl Garrett, founder of the Garrett Planning Network, Mary Lacey Gibson, business planning coach for the Garrett Planning Network, and I came up with a few tips on how to gather feedback from your clients so that you can build a strong Value Proposition.

Here, with a little reworking, is the gist of that conversation.

*****************************************

To get it right ... your Value Proposition, that is ... you know what your best qualities and, gulp, weak spots are. A good way to start the process of understanding the real value you bring is to speak with your clients directly. While surveys can be good, personal conversations oftentimes yield a more candid and meaningful conversation.

Here are some tips on getting feedback from a select group of your clients - in person.

HOW TO ELICIT FEEDBACK FROM AN ADVISORY BOARD

THE INVITATION PROCESS

1. Determine your list and invite the right people.
   · Review your client list.

· Select 8 to 12 clients that you feel you have a real solid relationship.

· Give them a call.

· Tell them that you're forming a client advisory board and you really appreciate their friendship, respect their opinions and would love to get their feedback on how they feel you could best improve the quality of your clients' experiences with you.

· Invite them all to meet with you together. If that’s not possible, visit with them individually in-person or over the phone. In-person is best as you will have a more rich and honest conversation that way.

· Tell them you will send an email (or mailed) confirmation and short list of questions in advance of the meeting. Ask them to come prepared to talk about the questions.

THE PREPARATION STAGE

2. Get them thinking between the invitational call and the feedback meeting.

· In an email or letter, recap the time, date, location and purpose of the meeting. Include a list of questions. Ask them to come prepared to talk about the questions.

· Questions might include:

a. If you were to describe me and the work we've done together to a beloved family member or friend, what would you say?

b. My business grows through referrals from satisfied clients. What would you suggest I do to increase the likelihood that clients will recommend me to their family and friends?

c. When you were first searching for a financial advisor, what factors caused you to select me? What could have made that process better for you?

d. What do you appreciate most about our relationship?

e. Is there anything bothering you about our relationship?

THE CLIENT FEEDBACK MEETING

3. Host the meeting.

· Pick a quite, comfortable setting. Use a conference room or private meeting room and have breakfast, lunch or refreshments catered in. Minimize distractions.

· Welcome people as they arrive and get everyone settled.

· Provide an opening statement about the purpose of the meeting. Ask people to be totally candid.

· Ask your questions and take notes. Have a staff member or trusted business colleague take a duplicate set of notes (you may not be able to hear and capture everything on your own).

· Thank the attendees and promise to use their advice.

THE THANK YOU LETTER

4. Send a thank you letter or email.

· Recap the top take-aways.

· Tell them you are in the process of incorporating their feedback into your business.
· Invite them to a Progress and Update Meeting in 60 days so that you can report in and get additional ideas on how to improve your service to them.

THE PROGRESS AND UPDATE MEETING

5. Repeat Steps 2-4 above, but instead of asking them the original questions, ask them to come prepared to offer additional insights and advice based on the key takeaways from the last meeting and the progress report you’ll provide.

In addition to a client advisory board, we also suggest a business advisory board. Find successful business owners, in particular, service businesses, in your community that you can learn from, share your ideas, gains and pains with. These people, once they understand what you are trying to contribute to the health of the community will become your referral sources and cheerleaders. All of them are serving the same small market and may have experiences that mirror yours.

You may be amazed how generous people are when they know you and like you and you ask for their help. We like to help people we care about. These clients won't expect anything in return for their candid feedback and wonderful ideas, other than seeing you take action and keep the channels of feedback flowing. Your clients want you to stay in business. They will help in any way they feel they can. Just ask.

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:

NOTE: IF YOU MISSED THE LIVE WEBINAR, YOU CAN DOWNLOAD BOTH THE WEBINAR AND THE WHITE PAPER USING THE LINK BELOW.

DOWNLOAD THE WEBINAR RECORDING:

http://www.interactiveadvisorysoftware.com/category/webinars

ACCESS THE WHITE PAPER:
http://www.interactiveadvisorysoftware.com/news-events/information-sheets
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Free Webinar on Tuesday July 17, 2012 at 2:00 pm ET / 11:00 am PT

BUILDING ENTERPRISE VALUE IN YOUR FINANCIAL ADVISORY FIRM

All financial advisory firms strive to be profitable. But some profitable business models are more stable and sustainable than others. A firm that operates efficiently is more profitable than a firm with shaky operations and an overwhelmed staff. A firm that is not dependent on one or two “star” producers is more sustainable than a firm that relies on a star. A smoothly functioning firm also is better able to focus its energy on obtaining more “ideal” clients and creating an enterprise that will be valuable when principals wish to cash out. 

Strong, sustainable firms begin by delivering superior service to clients. These firms also forge superior operational efficiency and effectiveness. And they are committed to continuous improvement, both in updating staff members’ skills and defining, documenting and executing workflows for greater productivity. Finally, technology such as the single-database wealth management platform by Interactive Advisory Software (IAS), pulls it all together by providing all staff members with access to client information and advanced tools so that they can deliver the highest level of service. 

When that level of excellence is reached, client retention will be almost automatic, and client referrals will soar. Wealth managers on staff will be able to use their advanced analytical skills, instead of “putting out fires.” Regulatory compliance will be systematic. The firm will be able to smoothly absorb new clients or even add new advisors with existing books of business. And the firm will be attractive as a buyout or merger candidate, if that’s the direction that the principals choose. 

Leaders of advisory firms realize that client service and operational efficiency are the primary drivers of their businesses. However, they don’t always know how to get where they want to go. They get lost in the day- to-day challenges of running their business, and they neglect long-term strategies. For a while, even a firm with shaky operations can succeed if the principals have good sales skills or a good track record as an investment manager. Eventually, however, the weaknesses will catch up with the firm, especially as it adds clients. 

On Tuesday July 17, 2012, at 2:00 pm ET / 11:00 am PT in a free educational webinar, Marie Swift and a panel of experts will explain how to build a stronger firm that cannot only accommodate growth, but can actually generate it by providing services that turn clients into lifelong advocates. 

DOWNLOAD THE WEBINAR RECORDING:

http://www.interactiveadvisorysoftware.com/category/webinars

ACCESS THE WHITE PAPER:
http://www.interactiveadvisorysoftware.com/news-events/information-sheets

See you in Chicago July 16th for a full-day marketing workshop?

 

Hi NAPFA Members and other financial advisors in and around the Midwest!

Good news: I’ll be leading a full-day marketing workshop in Chicago on Monday July 16^th!

This fun, interactive workshop will provide you with the tools to implement an effective marketing strategy based on the media your ideal clients are relying on today for information.

We will spend a full 8 hours together talking about “all things marketing”.

At the end of the day, you'll leave with:

1.   An action plan for building your online presence

2.   A 13-month marketing calendar

3.   A clearer vision of how you can articulate your value to the right people, in the right ways, at the right time

In addition to the full day interactive workshop and professional advice you'll receive from me and your financial planning peer group, you will have the opportunity to film a short video message that you can use on your website, blog, Facebook page, social media sites, etc. Simply come dressed in business casual clothes and be prepared to answer this one question: What is the most important thing for a consumer to consider when looking for professional advice? Your video clip will be emailed to you within one week.

Special bonus: I’ll be bringing a member of the younger generation with me who will share his insights on using social media platforms to communicate and build stronger relationships.

Other perks:

1.   Continental breakfast and a boxed lunch will be provided

2.   All paid attendees will be entered to win a 32 GB I-Pad – the sooner you register, the more tickets you’ll get in the gold fish bowl

$45 for NAPFA members (a total bargain!)

$100 for non-members (a real deal!)

Join me on Monday July 16^th and learn:

How to Leverage the Power of “Fee-Only” Planning in Social Media, Public Relations and with Centers of Influence 

See you at:

DePaul University, O’Hare Campus

Monday, July 16^th, 8:30-4:30

Registration

Click this link to register now: Midwest Region

Questions?

Contact Bill Keffer at bill@kefferfinancialplanning.com or 630-842-5609

Watch 2 minute video now 

http://bit.ly/KOUWGt

 

May is Heritage Planning Month - Options to Learn More 

On May 16th, two special webinars will be streamed live online. These free, 90-minute broadcasts will be led by Rod Zeeb, CEO and co-founder of The Heritage Institute, and co-creator of The Heritage Process.  

Webinar 1: May 16th, 10:30 AM Central time 
Transformational Philanthropy (for advisors)

The ‘Transformational Philanthropy’ perspective is revolutionizing how advisors and non-profits work with clients and donors on a multi-generational basis. Learn how building deeper, more significant relationships transforms donors into philanthropists, and what that means to advisors and non-profit organizations. Register here for the live webinar.  

Webinar 2: May 16th, 3:30 PM Central time 
What Matters (for all audiences)

This highly interactive workshop introduces heritage planning by asking a simple, yet vitally important question: What matters to you? It examines the proven keys to building a stronger, more unified family today and for generations to come. Register here for the live webinar.

 In-person Events

Together with Heritage partners from Navigator Legacy Partners, they organization will be leading workshops for professionals and the general public around the country including Colorado and throughout Southern California during the month of May. To see where events will be held, or logon for the live webinars on May 16th and learn what Heritage Planning offers to you and the clients/donors whom you serve, visit: http://theheritageinstitute.com

What Matters?

An Interview with Cameron Thornton and Rodney Zeeb

The authors of this new novel share their thoughts with Marie Swift in an exclusive audio interview.

Cameron Thornton and Rodney Zeeb

Americans routinely focus on the importance of financial planning, retirement planning and estate planning. Each is important for the well being of one’s financial life, and for providing for the loved ones left behind after death. But according to Cam Thornton and Rod Zeeb, the authors of a new novel called What Matters?, traditional planning only deals with the money we accumulate, not the meaning of our lives. 

“Most people are concerned throughout their life with money,” says Thornton. “How much do they have now, how much will they have in retirement, how much will be left to their heirs? Those are important questions. But we should be equally concerned with the legacy we leave that can have far more impact on our families than the money: our stories, experiences, life-lessons, values and traditions.” 

For Thornton and Zeeb, the distinction is that financial planning passes what one owns, while heritage planning passes who one is.

Their new novel, What Matters? (January 2012, $25.00, Heritage Institute Press, ISBN 1-933694-20-3), springs from the principles of The Heritage Process™ which aims to bridge the gap between the ‘products’ of traditional planning (like wills and trusts) and the hopes and dreams that parents and grandparents have for their family to be unified, productive and healthy for many generations. 

In What Matters? Readers meet Martin Forrestal in the last weeks of his life, soon after makes the decision to share his real legacy with his family. Martin wants to ensure that his children, grandchildren and the generations who follow will know who he was, what he believed in, what he fought for, and about the values that guided his life. What Matters will help readers to appreciate one of the most important ways that they can help to ensure that their own families can remain unified, productive and healthy for many generations to come.

During a long night of reflection, eighty-two year old Martin identifies the values that matter most to him. His list begins with the value of Love. By the time the sun is rising outside his hospital window, he has identified fourteen values, from Responsibility to Family Unity.

As family and friends come to say their goodbyes, Martin records his stories. The action of the novel flows back and forth across more than a century, from an icy mountain cave where he was trapped by an avalanche with his Scout Troop, to a tiny coral island in the Pacific that saw some of WW II’s bloodiest combat. From a pioneer cabin in old Montana on Christmas morning, to the sweeping plains of the Argentine pampas, Martin recounts how each of the values on his list were forged into his character. He is not financially wealthy. But he knows that by sharing What Matters with generations of his family, he is passing a far more important and enduring legacy than material wealth.

What Matters brims with original stories, heartfelt emotions, and the eloquence of simple truths. Many of the chapters can be enjoyed as stand-alone stories.

Listen to the audio interview for more insights from Thornton and Zeeb. 

Anthony Petsis and Associates Supports the DARE Program

Great example of taking an advertising strategy and giving it a PR twist

The strategy created a downspout of good PR for the firm.

Read the related article in Marie Swift's

Marketing Maven column for Financial Planning magazine.

Free Webinar with Marie Swift: Marketing That Works For Financial Advisors Today

A Video Message from Marie Swift

View now.

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.

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

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>
Mastering Social Media - Research Mag - August 2011

Read now.

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." 
 

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

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.

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:

http://www.Financial-Planning.com 

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.

Marie Swift and NAPFA invite you to:

 

Marketing That Works for Advisors Today 
Wednesday, October 19, 2011 | 4:00 pm - 4:50 pm

Register Free at: 

http://www.moneyshow.com/tradeshow/Chicago/World_MoneyShow/fa_track.asp
 

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

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!

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!

 
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/.

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.