Corporate governance

Much like deciding the right client headcount, choosing whether to fire a customer or turn away new business represents an important step in a firm's development.

Step away from the rote 30-second spiel. Instead, forge connections with advisory prospects based on trust, not tactics.

The question ties into so many of the factors that distinguish large and small firms, various client niches and decisions about whether or not to hire staff.

The fact that many financial advisors say they do not provide tax planning belies how much value they may add through that service, according to an expert.

Tips and tricks on building a successful niche: This week, Andrew Barninger of Personal Wealth Advisory shares insights on financial planning for business owners looking for an exit.

Some financial advisors may still hesitate to get on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube or TikTok. But experts say growing firms need to be on the social platforms.

In a field with very high rates of attrition, financial planners are finding pillars of support in study groups as they work to reach more young customers.

Former Morgan Stanley broker Kathy Frazier sued the firm in 2015 and was later joined by six other Black plaintiffs who also alleged they had been systematically excluded from the best advisory teams and client leads.

It may be tempting to hire a "2.0 version" of a departing employee, but doing so risks reinforcing stale processes and mindsets.