What do think your clients might say about you when they meet friends or family following their meeting with you? Are they strong advocates and if so what are they strong advocates of? On the other hand, might they be moaning about having to see their adviser to sort out their pension which seems really expensive for the service they get? Thinking about your proposition from the client's perspective is even more important since the RDR changes took effect. So how can your IFP membership help you and your firm to tackle the challenges you face in this brave new world?
The shift in emphasis from product to service means that you need to clearly demonstrate how you add value to your client, with next level thinking and innovation. Clients need to be comfortable with the cost involved and genuinely appreciate the value delivered if they are to retain your services year after year, let alone refer you to friends and family.
Being an IFP member means that you are part of a professional community, one which is very willing to share ideas and experiences of what works in business and what doesn't.
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One of the common denominators of Accredited Financial Planning FirmsTM and other successful firms is that they actively seek out new and exciting ways of adding value to the service they offer their clients and prospective clients. They do this by attending branch meetings, conferences, events, workshops and networking with others online too, sharing ideas and experiences with peers to make sure they aren't missing a trick.
For those members who need help in building a Financial Planning proposition, the IFP's new Integrated Financial Planning programme is the ideal place to start.
Taking the plunge and beginning the process to become a CFP^CM professional has been described by many members as a "light bulb" moment in their career and is also another great way to differentiate yourself with a qualification well above minimum requirements.
Becoming an Accredited Firm means you've reached the ultimate in terms of service standards. Check out what is involved in all of these by visiting the IFP website.

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