In December, the Northern Ireland Branch of the IFP held its last meeting of 2011. It continued the branch’s focus on the changes needed to meet RDR requirements. The session - followed by the annual Christmas Dinner - was facilitated by Zurich and was entitled: “Adviser charging – where are you now?”

At the meeting, delegates considered the main areas that advisers need to think about and plan, namely Business Planning, Segmentation, Proposition, Pricing and one area rarely mentioned, Articulation. On the day, the group wanted to concentrate on Proposition and Pricing, so this was where most time was spent. The session sparked very lively debate and discussion around exactly which aspects of service clients value most and are prepared to pay for.

Being able to articulate your proposition to clients will also be a crucial factor given the RDR changes, however few are yet talking much about this. The branch is scheduling extra sessions in 2012 to help members to deal effectively with this most important part of the changes that lie ahead. Following formal proceedings, delegates retired for a few drinks and a very enjoyable Christmas dinner which was one of the highlights of the year.

On 7 March, the branch welcomes Abbie Tanner of A Business Innovation to Belfast as lead speaker for the meeting which will focus on the topic of Marketing your Financial Planning business. It’s likely to be popular so early booking is recommended if you want to keep up with the latest innovations.