Research Magazine – December 15, 2009
Tom McCarthy, an FA affiliated with Commonwealth Financial, uses the LifeBio system to build rapport with current clients and special guests. It's a great “next generation” strategy for smart advisors nationwide. If you are looking for a new way to generate better conversations with your clients, read Marie Swift's article now: Time for Transition IV - Using Special Events to Boost Business.
Financial Planning magazine – December 2009
Leslie Swid and Marie Swift of Impact Communications provide advice on how to use Web 2.0 and social media strategies online to build relationships and market your business. Written by social media expert, Chris Hall of Securities America (www.SecuritiesAmerica.com), this article contains dozens of great tips on how to think about - and use - the worldwide web to your advantage. Hall is also the creator of an innovative new practice management site - www.advisorpod.com. Read Socially Adept by Chris Hall now.
Researchmag.com – November 2009
In “This is TIme for Transition III - Niche Marketing” the third of a three-part series, Marie Swift writes about how marketing to a niche can increase momentum and growth. Sammie Gatti of Dallas-based Navigation Financial Group (www.navigationfinancial.com) is expanding her existing practice by targeting women working for Texas Instruments. Learn more in this final article in the series.
Morningstar Advisor – October 2009
In a companion article, Create a Five-Touch Marketing Campaign, Marie Swift provided five tips to improve an advisor's marketing plan. While PR and media placements can certainly play a part in your overall marketing plan, crafting a five-touch campaign is a good way to attract attention and build share of mind right now.
These days, as many competitors are cutting costs, one way to stand out from the crowd is to invest in direct mail and supplement it with electronic communications and phone outreach.
Morningstar Advisor – October 1, 2009
In a companion article, "Create a Five-Touch Marketing Campaign," Marie Swift provided five tips to improve an advisor's marketing plan. While PR and media placements can certainly play a part in your overall marketing plan, crafting a five-touch campaign is a good way to attract attention and build share of mind right now.
Researchmag.com – October 2009
In “Time for a Transition II - Aquisition Time?” the second of a three-part series, Marie Swift writes about expanding through acquisition -- or, on the flip side, how prudent pruning of your client list can facilitate growth by freeing up time for you to focus on your best clients. Marie shares valuable insight through her interviews with Donald J. Patrick, CFP®, managing director of Integrated Financial Group in Atlanta, Ga. (www.integrated-financial-group.com) and Patricia Hinds, CFP®, Granite Financial, Saint Cloud, Minn (www.granitefinancial.net). Read more now.
Researchmag.com – September 2009
In “Time for a Transition?” the first of a three-part series, Marie Swift writes that now might be the perfect time for advisors to consider making a change in business affiliations. Her article offers solid advice on either switching broker/dealers or going independent. Marie shares valuable insight through her interviews with Securities America’s Gregg Johnson, senior vice president and director of branch development, training and support (www.securitiesamerica.com) and Daniel G. Gensler, CFP®, owner of San Diego-based RIA The Gensler Group, branch manager for LPL Financial (www.genslergroup.com). Read article now.
Advisor Perspectives – September 13, 2009
In “Seven Ways to Reach Prospects in the New World,” writer Nancy Opiela stresses that advisors need to rethink their marketing programs to be consistent with the clients’ expectations in this “New Normal” market of lower returns from capital markets. Despite the current hubbub surrounding social media and the online world, it’s important to create opportunities to have face time with your clients, according to Marie Swift, who was interviewed for this article. Marie reminds advisors that they need to continue to make a personal connection with clients in less formal, interactive gatherings and town hall meetings, which are more appropriate for this unsettled market.
Bank Investment Consultant magazine – September 2009
In her article, Marketing on a Shoestring, Marie Swift suggests now is the time to take advantage of marketing your practice and distinguishing yourself from other advisors. According to Marie, the good news is you don't need to pay big bucks to promote yourself. There are all kinds of low-cost ways to spread your message via the Internet, as well as the tried-and-true low-tech, high-touch strategies of the past. Read Marie’s article for a wide range of budget-friendly ideas on getting your name out now.
Transitions Magazine – September 2009
Marie Swift writes about the importance of differentiating yourself from other advisors in her article, Stand Out with Purposeful Planning. Marie interviews 30-year industry veteran, Barbara Culver and creator of the Purposeful Planning System to learn how she successfully carved a niche for herself, working with high net worth individuals and families. Read more to learn how she differentiates herself by working with clients to ensure that the wealth creator’s legacy will survive for subsequent generations.
Researchmag.com – September 2009
In “Time for a Transition?” the first of a three-part series, Marie Swift writes that now might be the perfect time for advisors to consider making a change in business affiliations. Her article offers solid advice on either switching broker/dealers or going independent. Marie shares valuable insight through her interviews with Securities America’s Gregg Johnson, senior vice president and director of branch development, training and support (www.securitiesamerica.com) and Daniel G. Gensler, CFP®, owner of San Diego-based RIA The Gensler Group, branch manager for LPL Financial (www.genslergroup.com). Read article now.
Financial Planning magazine – September 2009
In her cover story What’s Next, Marie Swift takes a look at what successful advisors are doing to position themselves, now that the economic situation has stabilized somewhat. A follow-up to her article in the March, 2009 issue (What Works Now), this article explores a variety of approaches, including improved communications, dynamic Web content, strategic alliances, niche strategies, empowering staff, optimizing systems, etc.
Financial Planning magazine – September 2009
In his article Outsourcing Change, industry veteran Bob Veres addressed the impact of last year's meltdown on financial planning practices and the necessity of being able to adjust to change. He discussed the value of utilizing coaching services to help make shifts in thinking and implementation, and specifically mentioned Impact Communications’ Marie Swift as the only Marketing and PR Coach. Read the article.
Research Magazine – August 2009
Recently stock market rallies have pushed the major indexes above key psychological levels. For the Nasdaq, that level is 2,000 and for the S&P 500, it’s 1,000. We’ve come a long way from the dark days of last year. Economic indicators suggest the global economy is stabilizing. The financial dark cloud of the Great Recession may indeed be lifting. It’s given investors some renewed optimism. In Marie Swift's article, "The Fundamentals Never Change," she writes that no matter how dynamic markets are, the core principles of providing quality client-centered financial advice never really change. Read more.
Horsesmouth, June 3 – 2009
In Going Independent: The Benefits of Joining an Established Branch, Marie Swift offers advice on things advisors should consider before making the jump. If you are trying to figure out whether it's time to strike out on your own, take the linked quiz to see whether the support of an independent branch is the right next step for your business. Industry veterans Don Patrick, Bill Glubiak, Clyde Wyatt and Arthur Cooper are profiled.
Research magazine – May 2009
Is Modern Portfolio Theory Dead?
In a remarkable series of interviews with prominent investment management experts, Harold Evensky, Rick Ferri, Bob Kargenian and Deena B. Katz, Marie Swift explores modern portfolio theory and its applicability given the current economic downturn.
Transitions magazine – April 2009
Client Feedback & Survey Systems
Surveying your clients lets them know that you care, which in today’s economic climate, is one of the most important messages you can communicate. David Drucker and Marie Swift explore various methods of surveying clients, from do-it-yourself tools to high-end turnkey systems. Along the way they discover recent trends in feedback responses. For example, Julie Littlechild, President of Advisor Impact, (www.AdvisorImpact.com) notes that clients with plans who work with pro-active advisors have disconnected the advisor’s value from the gyrations of the stock market.
Financial Advisor magazine – March, 12, 2009
Conquer Market Woes with Technology
This year's Technology Tools for Today (“T3”) Conference, put on by Virtual Office News in February, offered advisors guidance on how to use technology to deal with the economic crisis. Marie Swift attended the conference and in this article for Financial Advisor magazine shares insights and advice from leading technology providers in the industry
Financial Planning magazine – March 2009
What Works Now – Cover Story
Marie Swift spoke to advisors around the country who are flourishing right now — despite the recession and endless stream of bad news. For the most part, it isn't special circumstances or luck that helps them thrive, but flexible business models that help them adjust quickly and take advantage of new opportunities. Read the best practices culled from talking with advisors who are managing to survive and even grow.
Tom McCarthy, an FA affiliated with Commonwealth Financial, uses the LifeBio system to build rapport with current clients and special guests. It's a great “next generation” strategy for smart advisors nationwide. If you are looking for a new way to generate better conversations with your clients, read Marie Swift's article now: Time for Transition IV - Using Special Events to Boost Business.
Financial Planning magazine – December 2009
Leslie Swid and Marie Swift of Impact Communications provide advice on how to use Web 2.0 and social media strategies online to build relationships and market your business. Written by social media expert, Chris Hall of Securities America (www.SecuritiesAmerica.com), this article contains dozens of great tips on how to think about - and use - the worldwide web to your advantage. Hall is also the creator of an innovative new practice management site - www.advisorpod.com. Read Socially Adept by Chris Hall now.
Researchmag.com – November 2009
In “This is TIme for Transition III - Niche Marketing” the third of a three-part series, Marie Swift writes about how marketing to a niche can increase momentum and growth. Sammie Gatti of Dallas-based Navigation Financial Group (www.navigationfinancial.com) is expanding her existing practice by targeting women working for Texas Instruments. Learn more in this final article in the series.
Morningstar Advisor – October 2009
In a companion article, Create a Five-Touch Marketing Campaign, Marie Swift provided five tips to improve an advisor's marketing plan. While PR and media placements can certainly play a part in your overall marketing plan, crafting a five-touch campaign is a good way to attract attention and build share of mind right now.
These days, as many competitors are cutting costs, one way to stand out from the crowd is to invest in direct mail and supplement it with electronic communications and phone outreach.
Morningstar Advisor – October 1, 2009
In a companion article, "Create a Five-Touch Marketing Campaign," Marie Swift provided five tips to improve an advisor's marketing plan. While PR and media placements can certainly play a part in your overall marketing plan, crafting a five-touch campaign is a good way to attract attention and build share of mind right now.
Researchmag.com – October 2009
In “Time for a Transition II - Aquisition Time?” the second of a three-part series, Marie Swift writes about expanding through acquisition -- or, on the flip side, how prudent pruning of your client list can facilitate growth by freeing up time for you to focus on your best clients. Marie shares valuable insight through her interviews with Donald J. Patrick, CFP®, managing director of Integrated Financial Group in Atlanta, Ga. (www.integrated-financial-group.com) and Patricia Hinds, CFP®, Granite Financial, Saint Cloud, Minn (www.granitefinancial.net). Read more now.
Researchmag.com – September 2009
In “Time for a Transition?” the first of a three-part series, Marie Swift writes that now might be the perfect time for advisors to consider making a change in business affiliations. Her article offers solid advice on either switching broker/dealers or going independent. Marie shares valuable insight through her interviews with Securities America’s Gregg Johnson, senior vice president and director of branch development, training and support (www.securitiesamerica.com) and Daniel G. Gensler, CFP®, owner of San Diego-based RIA The Gensler Group, branch manager for LPL Financial (www.genslergroup.com). Read article now.
Advisor Perspectives – September 13, 2009
In “Seven Ways to Reach Prospects in the New World,” writer Nancy Opiela stresses that advisors need to rethink their marketing programs to be consistent with the clients’ expectations in this “New Normal” market of lower returns from capital markets. Despite the current hubbub surrounding social media and the online world, it’s important to create opportunities to have face time with your clients, according to Marie Swift, who was interviewed for this article. Marie reminds advisors that they need to continue to make a personal connection with clients in less formal, interactive gatherings and town hall meetings, which are more appropriate for this unsettled market.
Bank Investment Consultant magazine – September 2009
In her article, Marketing on a Shoestring, Marie Swift suggests now is the time to take advantage of marketing your practice and distinguishing yourself from other advisors. According to Marie, the good news is you don't need to pay big bucks to promote yourself. There are all kinds of low-cost ways to spread your message via the Internet, as well as the tried-and-true low-tech, high-touch strategies of the past. Read Marie’s article for a wide range of budget-friendly ideas on getting your name out now.
Transitions Magazine – September 2009
Marie Swift writes about the importance of differentiating yourself from other advisors in her article, Stand Out with Purposeful Planning. Marie interviews 30-year industry veteran, Barbara Culver and creator of the Purposeful Planning System to learn how she successfully carved a niche for herself, working with high net worth individuals and families. Read more to learn how she differentiates herself by working with clients to ensure that the wealth creator’s legacy will survive for subsequent generations.
Researchmag.com – September 2009
In “Time for a Transition?” the first of a three-part series, Marie Swift writes that now might be the perfect time for advisors to consider making a change in business affiliations. Her article offers solid advice on either switching broker/dealers or going independent. Marie shares valuable insight through her interviews with Securities America’s Gregg Johnson, senior vice president and director of branch development, training and support (www.securitiesamerica.com) and Daniel G. Gensler, CFP®, owner of San Diego-based RIA The Gensler Group, branch manager for LPL Financial (www.genslergroup.com). Read article now.
Financial Planning magazine – September 2009
In her cover story What’s Next, Marie Swift takes a look at what successful advisors are doing to position themselves, now that the economic situation has stabilized somewhat. A follow-up to her article in the March, 2009 issue (What Works Now), this article explores a variety of approaches, including improved communications, dynamic Web content, strategic alliances, niche strategies, empowering staff, optimizing systems, etc.
Financial Planning magazine – September 2009
In his article Outsourcing Change, industry veteran Bob Veres addressed the impact of last year's meltdown on financial planning practices and the necessity of being able to adjust to change. He discussed the value of utilizing coaching services to help make shifts in thinking and implementation, and specifically mentioned Impact Communications’ Marie Swift as the only Marketing and PR Coach. Read the article.
Research Magazine – August 2009
Recently stock market rallies have pushed the major indexes above key psychological levels. For the Nasdaq, that level is 2,000 and for the S&P 500, it’s 1,000. We’ve come a long way from the dark days of last year. Economic indicators suggest the global economy is stabilizing. The financial dark cloud of the Great Recession may indeed be lifting. It’s given investors some renewed optimism. In Marie Swift's article, "The Fundamentals Never Change," she writes that no matter how dynamic markets are, the core principles of providing quality client-centered financial advice never really change. Read more.
Horsesmouth, June 3 – 2009
In Going Independent: The Benefits of Joining an Established Branch, Marie Swift offers advice on things advisors should consider before making the jump. If you are trying to figure out whether it's time to strike out on your own, take the linked quiz to see whether the support of an independent branch is the right next step for your business. Industry veterans Don Patrick, Bill Glubiak, Clyde Wyatt and Arthur Cooper are profiled.
Research magazine – May 2009
Is Modern Portfolio Theory Dead?
In a remarkable series of interviews with prominent investment management experts, Harold Evensky, Rick Ferri, Bob Kargenian and Deena B. Katz, Marie Swift explores modern portfolio theory and its applicability given the current economic downturn.
Transitions magazine – April 2009
Client Feedback & Survey Systems
Surveying your clients lets them know that you care, which in today’s economic climate, is one of the most important messages you can communicate. David Drucker and Marie Swift explore various methods of surveying clients, from do-it-yourself tools to high-end turnkey systems. Along the way they discover recent trends in feedback responses. For example, Julie Littlechild, President of Advisor Impact, (www.AdvisorImpact.com) notes that clients with plans who work with pro-active advisors have disconnected the advisor’s value from the gyrations of the stock market.
Financial Advisor magazine – March, 12, 2009
Conquer Market Woes with Technology
This year's Technology Tools for Today (“T3”) Conference, put on by Virtual Office News in February, offered advisors guidance on how to use technology to deal with the economic crisis. Marie Swift attended the conference and in this article for Financial Advisor magazine shares insights and advice from leading technology providers in the industry
Financial Planning magazine – March 2009
What Works Now – Cover Story
Marie Swift spoke to advisors around the country who are flourishing right now — despite the recession and endless stream of bad news. For the most part, it isn't special circumstances or luck that helps them thrive, but flexible business models that help them adjust quickly and take advantage of new opportunities. Read the best practices culled from talking with advisors who are managing to survive and even grow.
