Paul Decelles, CFP • Newport, VT
Paul Decelles Financial Strategies • LPL Financial
But this is not a very densely populated area and does not have the typical mix of corporations, research companies, tech firms, etc. Most of the commerce in our area is related to agriculture, tourism, small businesses, and professional services.
Our ideal client is what I like to call the millionaire-next-door type. This is someone who has worked hard and saved diligently throughout their life, and when they are approaching retirement or are in retirement, they would be open to hearing how a financial advisor might be able to have a major impact on their financial future.
In the past we have held about a dozen seminars per year, focusing on topics such as retirement-income planning, college planning, Social Security strategies, and investment planning. Advertising in the local newspaper is very affordable, and we send letters to all of our clients, asking them to come and bring a friend. This effort paid off in providing visibility and credibility in our local area.
I have found that client-appreciation events tend to attract a lot of attention and positive feedback. Word is spread to friends and associates of clients, so the positive association goes out beyond those who attend.
We also do a number of client events each year. One of the most popular is facilitated by our broker-dealer, LPL, who puts together an annual investment and economic outlook, which is updated midyear. We rent a banquet hall and invite all of our clients and have an outstanding turnout for both presentations.
We host a lot of fun events that are in keeping with the character of the community, including a special client event at our fine community theater, dinner cruises on a nearby lake, sporting events at the University of Vermont, and a number of other things. My favorite is our Christmas brunch, which is so popular we have to have two seatings. I am a supporter of the local high school, and especially their music department, so we sponsor having one of their musical groups play at our brunch. The whole affair is a big hit with clients.
Disclosure: Paul Decelles is a registered representative with and securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, a registered investment advisor. Member FINRA & SIPC. Investing involves risk, including potential loss of principal. No strategy ensures success or protects against a loss. Paul Decelles Financial Strategies is a separate unaffiliated entity from LPL Financial.
Photography by Don Whipple
