Why Referrals Matter

Referrals are the life’s blood of a financial planning business. According to investment firm Charles Schwab, a typical independent advisory firm gets over 88% of its new clients through referrals. Yet, some firms are reluctant to ask for referrals for a variety of reasons.

Some financial planners simply assume their clients will pass their name along to someone who can benefit from their services. Many find the prospect of asking their clients for referrals uncomfortable. For still others, there is, understandably, the omnipresent fear of rejection. Clients, too, may have their own concerns about how to approach the topic with friends or family, and how the referrals they make will be handled.

Because there is often confusion about the subject of referrals, Aequus has decided to take some of the mystery out of the process. Though every financial planning firm handles referrals differently, we thought we would share our approach. Here is what would happen should you recommend Aequus to someone who can benefit from our services.

* A simple letter of introduction is sent to the individual explaining our services and providing general information about Aequus.
* After the letter is sent, we make contact with your friend, family member or associate by telephone.
* We never share any personal information of yours or that of any of our clients.
* We confirm only that we enjoy working with you. Period.
* During that conversation, if we sense any discomfort or uneasiness, we would simply end the conversation and thank them for their time to close the conversation on a positive note.
* No additional attempts to contact the individual would be made unless invited to do so, or given specific permission to do so at that time.

Here are examples of the types of financial and life-planning events where we can be helpful:
— Sudden Money
— Inheritance
— Selling of a business
— Corporate buyout
— Divorce
— Fee-only financial planning
— Rollover of assets
— Stock option strategies

If you can think of someone who might find our services of value, tell them about Aequus. After all, one of the smartest reasons to make personal referrals to Aequus is also a selfish one. It will ensure that the dedicated team of planners working on your behalf will still be in business—ready to assist you whenever you need them.