In conversation with...

Ian Howell

Director & Independent Financial Planner,

Acorn Wealth Management Group

What is the single biggest challenge facing your advice business over the next 12-24 months?

Geopolitical led volatility, legislation changes and IHT changes.

What’s the biggest threat or opportunity for advice businesses in the next five years?

AI is the threat and the opportunity.

If you could solve one major issue in your business immediately, what would have the biggest impact?

No comment!

What are your clients most worried about right now, and how has this changed in the last year?

Political turmoil, inflation and whether the current returns “are too good to last” – this has largely remained unchanged for the past couple of years.

What’s your most effective way of reassuring anxious clients during periods of uncertainty or market volatility?

Historical referencing, managing investment return expectation and explaining volatility. Communication is key.

How do you attract early-career financial advisers into your team?

Word of mouth, industry events, personal connections, and client discussions.

What training or development programmes do you have in place for new or emerging advisers?

Observed fact finds, client role play (both fact find and sales presentations), accompanied visits, direct supervision and then ongoing training.

What support systems (e.g. mentoring, coaching) do you provide to help emerging advisers succeed?

Nothing specific is offered but we are exploring options for business coaches.

How do you retain new advisers in your organisation?

Make them part of the business, involve them in decision making, offer a clear and structured career path and hope that they are not influenced by money and are influenced more by what could be theirs in the future.

What one piece of advice would you give someone considering a career as an adviser?

Do it, we are a dying breed and no amount of AI will replace a friendly face, a reassuring handshake and complete client empathy.