6 minute read
In the professional world, gratitude can be a little-talked-about subject. But it's an important one! Showing gratitude and appreciation for your clients can be vital to establishing trust in your professional relationship. Thankfulness is the glue that holds us all together, and it's important to remember how powerful expressing thanks can be when it comes to maintaining meaningful connections.
According to an article in Nationwide Children’s, “people have reported feeling more loved and more connected to others in their lives when they routinely practice gratitude.” [1] Because of this, gratitude is one of the most important emotional tools in solidifying a professional relationship.
In the spirit of the holiday season, we’re discussing different ways financial advisors can foster gratitude when working with clients.
Expressing Gratitude Verbally
Giving a verbal “thank you” is a great way to build deeper connections with others when interacting in person. Although it seems simple, saying a meaningful “thank you” aloud can go a long way.
If you are in a meeting with a client, sum up the discussion with sincere thanks. "I appreciate you trusting me with your business for all these years" or "thank you for all the things you do to make my job easier" are two examples of places to start. It will let your client know that you appreciate them and remind them that you are more than just their financial advisor.
The more specific you can be to your relationship with the client, the better. It shows that you are paying close attention to the work you do together. Verbally expressing your gratitude helps clients understand that you appreciate not just their business, but them! After all, as a financial advisor, you depend on your clients for your well-being.
Expressing Gratitude Behaviorally
A different way you can express gratitude to your clients is through your actions. The key is not just to say thank you, but tangibly show your appreciation. You know what they say; actions speak louder than words!
Providing your clients with an unexpected act of service can be a great way to express your gratitude towards them. You may write a thank-you card, send over a small (compliance-approved) gift, or send them an interesting article that reminded you of them.
One article showed that the act of writing letters that express gratitude “produces better mental health by shifting one’s attention away from toxic emotions, such as resentment and envy.” [2] This mentality will keep you motivated to nourish your professional interactions and provide a positive experience for your client, and you!
Additionally, the study found “that simply expressing gratitude may have lasting effects on the brain […] and this could contribute to improved mental health over time.” [2] Practicing gratitude through a thank-you note or other tangible item is a great way to express how you feel and leave both you and your clients feeling optimistic about the relationship you’ve fostered.
Making Time to Say Thank You
Financial advisors need to express gratitude for their clients because clients keep your business, and therefore you, running strong. Make your client’s day by telling them how grateful you are that they trust you with their major financial decisions. This is a practice to implement not just in the holiday season but year-round!
When you express appreciation to others, you may just find that they will be more inclined to do the same for you.
Help Your Clients Express Gratitude Through a Dunham Donor-Advised Fund
With the holidays upon us, you may have clients looking for ways to express their gratitude and give back to the causes they care about. Many choose to demonstrate their gratefulness through charitable giving. If your clients are looking for a meaningful way to contribute to causes they are thankful for, they may be interested in the Dunham Donor-Advised Fund.
Through their charitable giving, your clients can help solve world problems, emphasize their values, and leave a positive impact for their families to follow. To learn more about how the Dunham Donor-Advised Fund may be an advantageous giving vehicle for your clients, click the button below or call us at (858) 964-0500.
More InformationSources:
[1] Nationwide Children’s, “The Mental Health Benefits of Gratitude.”
https://www.nationwidechildrens.org/family-resources-education/700childrens/2020/05/gratitude
[2] Greater Good Magazine, “How Gratitude Changes You and Your Brain.”
https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/article/item/how_gratitude_changes_you_and_your_brain
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