
Written by Bob Barber
2 Corinthians 6:14 “Do not be mismatched with unbelievers; for what do righteousness and lawlessness share together, or what does light have in common with darkness?”
For decades, a financial advisor was often chosen based on how close their office was, with little regard to experience, skills, specialization, or whether they had a qualified team to serve. In my 30-plus years of experience, I’ve seen local financial advice shift to online financial advice to now personal financial advice, which I see as the next wave. Technology is 100% behind all these shifts.
Five Reasons a local financial advisor may no longer be the best choice
1. They may not have the experience or qualifications needed.
2. They may not specialize in what one needs, such as Biblically Responsible Investing or Christian-based financial advice.
3. They may not be able to get well-experienced qualified staff if they are limited by location.
4. They may not be the most technologically advanced.
5. They may be commissioned based only, which creates a conflict of interest over fiduciary-based advice.
The Shift: Why Location No Longer Matters
1. Face-to-face online meetings. Meeting face-to-face online with an experienced, well-qualified advisor for personal financial planning is easier than ever.
2. Convenience. Online Financial planning meetings can be conducted from home, the workplace, or anywhere with a decent internet connection.
3. Communication. Text messaging, email, and cell phones make it easier than ever to communicate with a financial advisor or their team.
4. Easy documentation. Digital, secure documentation has replaced paper forms that require wet signatures, reducing the risk of lost information.
5. Direct deposit and withdrawals. Account-to-account transfers have eliminated the need for in-person transactions. Many firms also offer free ATM access for cash withdrawals from anywhere.
6. Electronic storage. Digital vaults store all documents securely with 24/7 access from anywhere.
7. Secure Online account access. Investment accounts and values can be viewed online anytime.
8. Ease of Appointments. Appointments can be easily scheduled through an advisor’s website with real-time availability.
Conclusion
Today’s technologically advanced Financial Advisory firms provide the personal touch through:
- Online Documentation
- High-tech Phone Systems
- Instant chat and text communication
- Face-to-face online meetings
- Real-time document collaboration
Financial advisory firms are not limited by location. They can also recruit qualified employees nationwide. Choosing a firm solely based on location could mean missing out on superior expertise and service.
Christian Financial Advisors® serves Christians with Biblically Responsible Investing and Christian-based financial advice, regardless of location. We also serve many local believers and are New Braunfels, Texas’ oldest financial advisory firm.