WealthManagement.com - September 2021
Impact Communications is proud to have played a role in The Conversations That Matter project -- which was honored by the WealthManagement.com #wealthies #WMIA21 judging committee in two categories -- and happy to see the Advisory Solutions team led by Heather Kelly, CLU, ChFC, RHU, HIA, MHP at Allianz Life Insurance of North America win one of the two categories for our work together on this important advisor study complemented by a special report, series of video interviews, educational webinars, articles on the topic.
The Conversations That Matter Project, which began in August 2020 and continues today with a follow-on project dubbed Mastering The Conversation, was a collaboration between Marie Swift and her team at Impact Communications, and Heather Kelly and the advisory solutions team at Allianz. This initiative was designed to help RIAs understand how good communication – which includes not just the right topics but the right cadence and tone — during times of duress can pay dividends for the advisory firm (primary goal). Allianz also wants to help RIAs see that today’s new and ever-evolving risk mitigation solutions such as annuities and Buffered Outcome ETFs can provide important benefits to the end-client especially if used within the context of a comprehensive financial plan (secondary goal).
Impact Communications is proud to have played a role in The Conversations That Matter project -- which was honored by the WealthManagement.com #wealthies #WMIA21 judging committee in two categories -- and happy to see the Advisory Solutions team led by Heather Kelly, CLU, ChFC, RHU, HIA, MHP at Allianz Life Insurance of North America win one of the two categories for our work together on this important advisor study complemented by a special report, series of video interviews, educational webinars, articles on the topic.
The Conversations That Matter Project, which began in August 2020 and continues today with a follow-on project dubbed Mastering The Conversation, was a collaboration between Marie Swift and her team at Impact Communications, and Heather Kelly and the advisory solutions team at Allianz. This initiative was designed to help RIAs understand how good communication – which includes not just the right topics but the right cadence and tone — during times of duress can pay dividends for the advisory firm (primary goal). Allianz also wants to help RIAs see that today’s new and ever-evolving risk mitigation solutions such as annuities and Buffered Outcome ETFs can provide important benefits to the end-client especially if used within the context of a comprehensive financial plan (secondary goal).
WealthManagement.com - September 2021
Impact Communications has been dubbed "The Best of the Best" in this year's #Wealthies competition. Take a look at the Wealthies 2021 profile, which showcases three of the elements in the Conversations That Matter project, which is now in the finalist category for "campaign of the year/marketing and PR firms." The grand award winner will be announced at the annual Awards Ceremony and Gala being held at the Ziegfeld Ballroom in Manhattan on September 9, 2021. View the Wealthies Circle profile now.
Impact Communications has been dubbed "The Best of the Best" in this year's #Wealthies competition. Take a look at the Wealthies 2021 profile, which showcases three of the elements in the Conversations That Matter project, which is now in the finalist category for "campaign of the year/marketing and PR firms." The grand award winner will be announced at the annual Awards Ceremony and Gala being held at the Ziegfeld Ballroom in Manhattan on September 9, 2021. View the Wealthies Circle profile now.
In June, 2021, Impact Communications was named a finalist for the Digital Campaign of the Year in the Marketing/PR Firm category of the WealthManagement.com Industry Awards for the "Conversations That Matter" project, which was produced in partnership with the Advisory Solutions arm of Allianz Life Insurance Company of North America (Allianz Life) (https://www.allianzlife.com/for-financial-professionals/the-conversations-that-matter-project). The Conversations That Matter project was also honored in a second category, with Allianz Life Insurance Company of North America named as a finalist in the Insurance/Service category. Read the related news release for full details on the project.
ThinkAdvisor - September 2021
Impact Communications founder and CEO, Marie Swift, has been named to ThinkAdvisor's Class of 2021 Luminaries list in the category Thought Leadership. Members of the Class of 2021 are being honored for the dynamic efforts they lead that are driving the financial services industry forward. In August 2020, she and her colleagues initiated the “Conversations That Matter” project with strategic support from Allianz Life Insurance Company of North America, entailing original research, content creation and promotional efforts. Its primary goals were to help advisors understand where they may have missed opportunities to galvanize client relationships during the pandemic; attract new business and remain resilient under duress; provide the means to help them weather the next storm; and show how — and why — many advisors thrived during the 2020 chaos. Read the summary of the Luminaries Thought Leaders here. | View Marie's profile in the Luminaries Class slide show here.
Impact Communications founder and CEO, Marie Swift, has been named to ThinkAdvisor's Class of 2021 Luminaries list in the category Thought Leadership. Members of the Class of 2021 are being honored for the dynamic efforts they lead that are driving the financial services industry forward. In August 2020, she and her colleagues initiated the “Conversations That Matter” project with strategic support from Allianz Life Insurance Company of North America, entailing original research, content creation and promotional efforts. Its primary goals were to help advisors understand where they may have missed opportunities to galvanize client relationships during the pandemic; attract new business and remain resilient under duress; provide the means to help them weather the next storm; and show how — and why — many advisors thrived during the 2020 chaos. Read the summary of the Luminaries Thought Leaders here. | View Marie's profile in the Luminaries Class slide show here.
DesignRush Recognition - June 2021
Impact Communications has been recognized as a Top Digital Marketing Agency in Kansas City by DesignRush, a B2B marketplace that connects brands with professional full-service agencies, web design companies, digital marketing firms, and top technology companies. DesignRush evaluates thousands of agencies and is committed to helping brands find the best solutions for their needs. The platform has a listing that allows users to search partners based on clients, portfolios, reviews, pricing structure, and testimonials. This recognition to Impact Communications is one of many that distinguishes the agency and it’s claims of excellence. View DesignRush / Impact profile here.
Impact Communications has been recognized as a Top Digital Marketing Agency in Kansas City by DesignRush, a B2B marketplace that connects brands with professional full-service agencies, web design companies, digital marketing firms, and top technology companies. DesignRush evaluates thousands of agencies and is committed to helping brands find the best solutions for their needs. The platform has a listing that allows users to search partners based on clients, portfolios, reviews, pricing structure, and testimonials. This recognition to Impact Communications is one of many that distinguishes the agency and it’s claims of excellence. View DesignRush / Impact profile here.
Additional Media Attention in 2021
ThinkAdvisor - September 2021
Marie Swift, president and chief executive officer, Impact Communications, which is a full-service marketing communications firm, has been named to ThinkAdvisor's Class of 2021 LUMINARIES list. In August 2020, she and her colleagues initiated “Conversations That Matter” with strategic support from the Advisory Solutions team led by Heather Kelly, CLU, ChFC, RHU, HIA, MHP at Allianz Life Insurance Company of North America. The Conversations That Matter project entailed original research, content creation and promotional efforts. Its primary goals were to help advisors understand where they may have missed opportunities to galvanize client relationships during the pandemic; attract new business and remain resilient under duress; provide the means to help them weather the next storm; and show how — and why — many advisors thrived during the 2020 chaos. #TALuminaries See the full list of Luminaries in the Thought Leader category by clicking here.
Marie Swift, president and chief executive officer, Impact Communications, which is a full-service marketing communications firm, has been named to ThinkAdvisor's Class of 2021 LUMINARIES list. In August 2020, she and her colleagues initiated “Conversations That Matter” with strategic support from the Advisory Solutions team led by Heather Kelly, CLU, ChFC, RHU, HIA, MHP at Allianz Life Insurance Company of North America. The Conversations That Matter project entailed original research, content creation and promotional efforts. Its primary goals were to help advisors understand where they may have missed opportunities to galvanize client relationships during the pandemic; attract new business and remain resilient under duress; provide the means to help them weather the next storm; and show how — and why — many advisors thrived during the 2020 chaos. #TALuminaries See the full list of Luminaries in the Thought Leader category by clicking here.
RIABiz - September 2021
Impact Communications’ CEO Marie Swift is taking calculated risks to travel and network, discuss important matters in person and build important relationships. But Schwab, which recently scrubbed , is smart to be more cautious given its large size, Swift told reporter Lisa Shidler. "The benefits of meeting in person are many, but the trade-off considerations are worthy of reflection." Swift is disarmingly forthright about her decisions involving business travel and event mingling. "I have several business meetings that have been postponed for some time now as we figured out the coronavirus situation," she says. "Plus my firm and one of our corporate clients, Allianz, are up for awards for our joint work on the 'Conversations That Matter' project done in 2020. So, I plan to attend the Awards Dinner and Gala that WealthManagement.com / Informa is hosting tomorrow night at the Ziegfeld Ballroom in New York City. Read: Schwab Advisor Services scrubs 10-city IMPACT 2021 in-person events, Oct. 18, after the company digests feedback from RIAs and staff.
Impact Communications’ CEO Marie Swift is taking calculated risks to travel and network, discuss important matters in person and build important relationships. But Schwab, which recently scrubbed , is smart to be more cautious given its large size, Swift told reporter Lisa Shidler. "The benefits of meeting in person are many, but the trade-off considerations are worthy of reflection." Swift is disarmingly forthright about her decisions involving business travel and event mingling. "I have several business meetings that have been postponed for some time now as we figured out the coronavirus situation," she says. "Plus my firm and one of our corporate clients, Allianz, are up for awards for our joint work on the 'Conversations That Matter' project done in 2020. So, I plan to attend the Awards Dinner and Gala that WealthManagement.com / Informa is hosting tomorrow night at the Ziegfeld Ballroom in New York City. Read: Schwab Advisor Services scrubs 10-city IMPACT 2021 in-person events, Oct. 18, after the company digests feedback from RIAs and staff.
ThinkAdvisor - September 2021
Financial advisors who can achieve celebrity status as a thought leader are poised to realize exponentially better business success. Marie Swift, CEO of Impact Communications, says that being a “thought leader” is not the same as being a “subject matter expert." She offers 5 Steps for Becoming a Celebrity Thought Leader.
RIABiz - August 2021
Impact Communications founder and CEO, Marie Swift, shares the personal considerations she uses for assessing whether she will or will not travel to conferences and business meetings this fall. Impact Communications does not have a company mandate for staff travel, as every team member is allowed to think through the options and make their own personal determinations. This is an interesting article with lots of nuance. Read the full article by Lisa Shidler in RIABiz.
InvestmentNews - August 2021
Marie Swift also provided comments to InvestmentNews reporter Jeff Benjamin. Read Jeff's article for helpful thoughts from Marie and other people interviewed: As Covid cancels industry events, advisers and speakers weigh attending what’s left.
Financial Advisor magazine - August 2021
Impact Communications founder and CEO, Marie Swift, provides comments that might be helpful for any business owner or executive team as they navigate today's highly charged, digital world. “The reality is that nothing is really private anymore,” wrote Swift in an e-mail to Financial Advisor. “Comments can be captured and shared on social media, via texts and emails. Smartphones are everywhere, and anyone who takes issue with a comment or demeanor can capture video or audio and create a hailstorm like the one we are seeing now.” Read LPL Parts Ways with Rep Over Allegedly Racist Hiring Practices.
Associated Press - July 2021
What's the state of business travel, you ask? This article from Associated Press writer David Koenig quotes Impact Communications' CEO Marie Swift. As a bonus element, Swift explains a good leveraging tactic for anyone who has ever submitted comments to a journalist and only seen some, not all, of those comments used in the published piece. Click here to read: The State of Business Travel Fall 2021 Outlook with Swift's advice. The full article on AP's newswire is published here: Business Travel Stirs, But Road Warriors Stay Grounded.
NAPFA Playbook Webinar – July 2021
Introducing and educating clients about non-binding side documents as a component of their estate plan is vital to determining if these vehicles of intentional communication to loved ones, heirs, successors, or trustees are important for either personal or practical reasons. In this webinar, Conversations That Matter: Educating Clients about Non-Binding Letters of Wishes, Marie Swift of Impact Communications, and Susan Turnbull of Personal Legacy Advisors, provided insights on how financial professionals can talk to clients about legacy in the context of their most important relationships. Check the NAPFA "store" for replay options.
Mindset Mastery Podcast – July 2021
Power coach Stephanie Bogan of Limitless Advisor talks with Mindset Mastery host Marie Swift about the secret to experiencing greater success, happiness, health, wealth, and well-being. Success can be draining – but it doesn’t have to be that way. Financial advisors and founders can create bigger, better futures – on their terms – if they “mind their line” and are willing to give up “the lollipop of mediocrity.” Listen to the episode now: Success That’s Satisfying and you can also access all the Mindset Mastery segments here.
Media Source Portal - July 2021
Impact Communications, has been recognized as a Top Digital Marketing Agency in Kansas City by DesignRush, a B2B marketplace that connects brands with professional full-service agencies, web design companies, digital marketing firms, and top technology companies. Full announcement -- with additional kudos from the AICVA Communicator Awards and the Wealth Management Awards 2021 competitions on Media Source Portal.
Executive Roundtable Journal - Q2 2021 - June 2021
Impact Communications' founder and CEO Marie Swift contributed a 5-page article with strategic advice for dealing with a PR crisis and handling media relations to this quarterly journal produced specifically for board members and C-level decision-makers in the financial services industry. Download Message Matters: Tips to Ensure Your Organization is Ready for Media Opportunities -- and Crisis Control.
PRNewswire - June 2021
A collaborative, RIA-focused project produced by Impact Communications and the Advisory Solutions team at Allianz Life Insurance Company of North America has been honored in two categories by the judges of the 2021 WealthManagement.com Awards. Read the news release: "Conversations That Matter: Addressing Client Concerns, Hopes and Dreams in Uncertain Times" Gets Nod from Panel of Industry Judges.
NAPFA Playbook Webinar – June 2021
In this webinar, Becoming Referable: The Strategies That Are Working Right Now, Marie Swift of Impact Communications, Julie Littlechild of Absolute Engagement, and Stephen Wershing of the Client-Driven Practice, provided insights for improving the quality and quantity of the best kind of marketing: Word of Mouth. Check the NAPFA "store" for replay options.
Mindset Mastery Podcast – June 2021
In The Power of Dialog and Story Listening, a self-proclaimed “story listener,” Preston D. Cherry, Ph.D., CFP® of Concurrent Financial Planning, LLC, talks with Mindset Mastery host Marie Swift about the power of dialog, authenticity, and creating common ground as a way to create more meaningful connections with clients, friends and family, while at the same time inspiring action. Access all the Mindset Mastery segments here.
InvestmentNews - May 2021
New research from Matthew Jackson of Dialektic Consulting and Bob Veres of Inside Information argues that clients want to see the real person behind the advice. The focus on being authentic, both personally and professionally, represents one segment of the report, which tapped the insights of 16 industry experts -- including Impact Communications' CEO and founder, Marie Swift. The report also looks at bringing in professional leadership, developing a niche and rebuilding your technology from the ground up. “We are entering the age of the fully transparent, self-expressed, truly alive, three-dimensional professional,” said Swift. Read now: RIA Marketing is Getting More Personal, Transparent.
Dialektic Consulting - May 2021
In Section 3 of 'New Frontiers' addresses the #propersonal approach to marketing, Marie Swift and fellow marketing professionals explain how authenticity and credibility work in the online age. We also learn how "authenticity" is not just about the founder, but extends to all members of your team. The future is decentralized. For financial advisory firms ready to pursue the New Frontier: This is a really good 10-minute learning session with additional insights from Dialektic's Matthew Jackson. View 10 minute segment on Vimeo: https://lnkd.in/g5siJp4. Get the full report here: https://lnkd.in/g3-VuwS. Read a summary here: https://lnkd.in/gdumAba.
Business Digest – May 2021
In this issue you’ll hear insightful ideas from successful entrepreneurs such as Marie Swift, founder and CEO of Impact Communications. “They make things happen!,” says editor Fanele Moyo. In her contributed article, Marie talks about communications and how business leaders can reassure people in uncertain times. The article also summaries the Conversations That Matter study produced by Impact Communications in partnership with Allianz Advisory Solutions in 2020. Free Subscription for a limited time only: https://www.bestbusinessdigest.com/lifetime-subscription. Read Communications Matter by Marie Swift now.
Inside Information - April 2021
Bob Veres of Inside Information provides an overview of the New Frontiers in Wealth Management report, which includes comments from sixteen experts who were interviewed for the paper, including Marie Swift of Impact Communications. Matthew Jackson of Dialektic Consulting, co-author of the paper, is already working as a Peak 2 business consultant in the advisor space, helping future-forward businesses navigate the best path through the adaptive valley. Think of the white paper as an evolutionary roadmap for a small number of advisors, and firms, who have the courage to jump out of a comfortable environment seeking something dramatically better.
New Frontiers in Wealth Management - April 2021
A new research report offers a look at the next iteration of professional financial planning firms—in four dimensions. Sixteen experts were interviewed for the paper, including Marie Swift of Impact Communications, who said that authenticity is an important element of the modern marketing equation. Written by Bob Veres of Inside Information and Matthew Jackson of Dialektic Consulting, the report provides the insights required to navigate the hyper-rapid changes and outlines the next stage of the profession’s evolution. Download the report here: dialektic.net/download/619/ or visit the summary here: dialektic.net/new-frontiers-in-wealth-management/. Watch a short video introduction by Matthew Jackson: https://vimeo.com/540011109.
NAPFA Playbook Webinar – April 2021
In this webinar, Mastering the Conversation: Client Care, Self-Care, and Lessons Learned from 2020, Marie Swift spoke with an all-star panel about improving communications skills and resiliency. Heather Kelly from Allianz Life Insurance Company of North America; John Enright, owner of a financial advisory firm and founder of the Custom Advisor Network; and Bonnie Sewell from American Capital Planning discussed what we learned via the Conversations That Matter project in 2020, and tips for mastering client conversations in 2021 and beyond. Check the NAPFA "store" for replay options.
Mindset Mastery Podcast - April 2021
In Aligning Dreams, Desire and Positive Motivation, New York Times best-selling author and industry thought leader, Steve Sanduski, talks with Mindset Mastery host Marie Swift about how people make decisions, the art of storytelling and living your dream as a financial planner today. Sanduski says that telling stories is the best way to connect heart and mind. He talks about “reframing the conversation” and reinventing ourselves on a daily basis and also shares an exercise that will help financial planners determine how referral-worthy they really are. Access all the Mindset Mastery segments here.
Executive Roundtable Journal - Q1 2021 - March 2021
Marie Swift serves as the managing editor for this quarterly journal produced specifically for board members and C-level decision-makers in the financial services industry. Click here to view this issue devoted to vision setting for 2021 and beyond.
Financial Planning - March 2021
Interesting article about advisor websites and online presence, including the cost and service spectrum, best practices, new options, etc. Marie Swift, founder and CEO of Impact Communications is one of the experts quoted. Impact’s sites start at $3,600 and go all the way up to $12,000 for richly-designed sites that come with concierge support, according to Swift. Advisors can go beyond their main web page by building “microsites.” Designed to generate leads, microsites with titles like “The 5 most important money moves for physicians” or “How to take advantage of new tax laws” invite readers to click through or fill out contact forms if they want more information. Read: How to build the best practice website — without paying $20,000.
NAPFA Playbook Webinar – March 2021
Kristin Harad and Marie Swift tag-teamed to share Growth Strategies for 2021 and beyond. They provided two different frameworks and tools for creating your own marketing plan. Swift included some calculators and templates as well. Check the NAPFA "store" for replay options.
Mindset Mastery Podcast –March 2021
In Hard Times Call for Soft Skills, best-selling author and long-time leader of the Life Centered Financial Planning movement, Mitch Anthony, talks with Mindset Mastery host Marie Swift about resiliency, positive psychology and how financial advisors can better connect with and serve their clients. He encourages us to recognize both the uniqueness and the singularity of the moment. Access all the Mindset Mastery segments here.
NAPFA Playbook Webinar – February 2021
In Implementing Your 2021 Strategy with Operations at the Wheel with Playbook emcee Marie Swift, an all-star panel of NAPFA members shares their practical tools and insights as they begin the year addressing their firm’s key objectives. A strong direction within your operations is the key to make your office run better, your people produce more, and your processes run smoother. Join us to gain insights and areas of focus you should be thinking about in this new year.
Mindset Mastery Podcast – February 2021
In Transition Fatigue and the Post-Pandemic Future, guest Susan Bradley, a leading light within the financial life planning profession, talks with Mindset Mastery host Marie Swift about opportunities and challenges for financial advisors and their clients during times of major transition – such as the pandemic. Access all the Mindset Mastery segments here.
Wealth Management – January 2021
As we look into 2021, we have to ask what changes in consumer behavior and marketing strategies are here to stay? In this article, 2021 Advisor Marketing Predictions: 36 Must-Read Insights From the Experts, Robert Sofia of Snappy Kraken provides the results of a single poll question with input from 36 of the foremost financial industry marketing experts he knows who all made a prediction. Click to read Marie Swift’s prediction.
NAPFA Playbook Webinar – January 2021
Joe Lukacs of Magellan Mastermind & Network (www.coachjoe.guru) has coached thousands of financial advisors over the course of his 30-year career. He joined Playbook 2021 emcee Marie Swift of Impact Communications to talk about why most advisors fail to achieve their true potential and how creating a written strategic plan is the secret to next-level success. Click to access replay: Make 2021 Your Breakout Year!
Advisor Perspectives – January 2021
Bob Veres references the Conversations That Matter survey conducted by Marie Swift of Impact Communications (sponsored by Allianz and the RIA support team). He talks about The State of the Profession – and What to Look for in the Coming Year.
Mindset Mastery Podcast – January 2021
In Building a Life by Choice, Not Chance, Speaker/Author/Coach Chris Yonker talks about reducing stress when we are facing critical, consequential transitions in business or life. His expertise helps individuals find out what they want and then holistically create that in business performance, sales, leadership development, succession planning, mindset, and in their own personal lives. Access all the Mindset Mastery segments here.
Financial advisors who can achieve celebrity status as a thought leader are poised to realize exponentially better business success. Marie Swift, CEO of Impact Communications, says that being a “thought leader” is not the same as being a “subject matter expert." She offers 5 Steps for Becoming a Celebrity Thought Leader.
RIABiz - August 2021
Impact Communications founder and CEO, Marie Swift, shares the personal considerations she uses for assessing whether she will or will not travel to conferences and business meetings this fall. Impact Communications does not have a company mandate for staff travel, as every team member is allowed to think through the options and make their own personal determinations. This is an interesting article with lots of nuance. Read the full article by Lisa Shidler in RIABiz.
InvestmentNews - August 2021
Marie Swift also provided comments to InvestmentNews reporter Jeff Benjamin. Read Jeff's article for helpful thoughts from Marie and other people interviewed: As Covid cancels industry events, advisers and speakers weigh attending what’s left.
Financial Advisor magazine - August 2021
Impact Communications founder and CEO, Marie Swift, provides comments that might be helpful for any business owner or executive team as they navigate today's highly charged, digital world. “The reality is that nothing is really private anymore,” wrote Swift in an e-mail to Financial Advisor. “Comments can be captured and shared on social media, via texts and emails. Smartphones are everywhere, and anyone who takes issue with a comment or demeanor can capture video or audio and create a hailstorm like the one we are seeing now.” Read LPL Parts Ways with Rep Over Allegedly Racist Hiring Practices.
Associated Press - July 2021
What's the state of business travel, you ask? This article from Associated Press writer David Koenig quotes Impact Communications' CEO Marie Swift. As a bonus element, Swift explains a good leveraging tactic for anyone who has ever submitted comments to a journalist and only seen some, not all, of those comments used in the published piece. Click here to read: The State of Business Travel Fall 2021 Outlook with Swift's advice. The full article on AP's newswire is published here: Business Travel Stirs, But Road Warriors Stay Grounded.
NAPFA Playbook Webinar – July 2021
Introducing and educating clients about non-binding side documents as a component of their estate plan is vital to determining if these vehicles of intentional communication to loved ones, heirs, successors, or trustees are important for either personal or practical reasons. In this webinar, Conversations That Matter: Educating Clients about Non-Binding Letters of Wishes, Marie Swift of Impact Communications, and Susan Turnbull of Personal Legacy Advisors, provided insights on how financial professionals can talk to clients about legacy in the context of their most important relationships. Check the NAPFA "store" for replay options.
Mindset Mastery Podcast – July 2021
Power coach Stephanie Bogan of Limitless Advisor talks with Mindset Mastery host Marie Swift about the secret to experiencing greater success, happiness, health, wealth, and well-being. Success can be draining – but it doesn’t have to be that way. Financial advisors and founders can create bigger, better futures – on their terms – if they “mind their line” and are willing to give up “the lollipop of mediocrity.” Listen to the episode now: Success That’s Satisfying and you can also access all the Mindset Mastery segments here.
Media Source Portal - July 2021
Impact Communications, has been recognized as a Top Digital Marketing Agency in Kansas City by DesignRush, a B2B marketplace that connects brands with professional full-service agencies, web design companies, digital marketing firms, and top technology companies. Full announcement -- with additional kudos from the AICVA Communicator Awards and the Wealth Management Awards 2021 competitions on Media Source Portal.
Executive Roundtable Journal - Q2 2021 - June 2021
Impact Communications' founder and CEO Marie Swift contributed a 5-page article with strategic advice for dealing with a PR crisis and handling media relations to this quarterly journal produced specifically for board members and C-level decision-makers in the financial services industry. Download Message Matters: Tips to Ensure Your Organization is Ready for Media Opportunities -- and Crisis Control.
PRNewswire - June 2021
A collaborative, RIA-focused project produced by Impact Communications and the Advisory Solutions team at Allianz Life Insurance Company of North America has been honored in two categories by the judges of the 2021 WealthManagement.com Awards. Read the news release: "Conversations That Matter: Addressing Client Concerns, Hopes and Dreams in Uncertain Times" Gets Nod from Panel of Industry Judges.
NAPFA Playbook Webinar – June 2021
In this webinar, Becoming Referable: The Strategies That Are Working Right Now, Marie Swift of Impact Communications, Julie Littlechild of Absolute Engagement, and Stephen Wershing of the Client-Driven Practice, provided insights for improving the quality and quantity of the best kind of marketing: Word of Mouth. Check the NAPFA "store" for replay options.
Mindset Mastery Podcast – June 2021
In The Power of Dialog and Story Listening, a self-proclaimed “story listener,” Preston D. Cherry, Ph.D., CFP® of Concurrent Financial Planning, LLC, talks with Mindset Mastery host Marie Swift about the power of dialog, authenticity, and creating common ground as a way to create more meaningful connections with clients, friends and family, while at the same time inspiring action. Access all the Mindset Mastery segments here.
InvestmentNews - May 2021
New research from Matthew Jackson of Dialektic Consulting and Bob Veres of Inside Information argues that clients want to see the real person behind the advice. The focus on being authentic, both personally and professionally, represents one segment of the report, which tapped the insights of 16 industry experts -- including Impact Communications' CEO and founder, Marie Swift. The report also looks at bringing in professional leadership, developing a niche and rebuilding your technology from the ground up. “We are entering the age of the fully transparent, self-expressed, truly alive, three-dimensional professional,” said Swift. Read now: RIA Marketing is Getting More Personal, Transparent.
Dialektic Consulting - May 2021
In Section 3 of 'New Frontiers' addresses the #propersonal approach to marketing, Marie Swift and fellow marketing professionals explain how authenticity and credibility work in the online age. We also learn how "authenticity" is not just about the founder, but extends to all members of your team. The future is decentralized. For financial advisory firms ready to pursue the New Frontier: This is a really good 10-minute learning session with additional insights from Dialektic's Matthew Jackson. View 10 minute segment on Vimeo: https://lnkd.in/g5siJp4. Get the full report here: https://lnkd.in/g3-VuwS. Read a summary here: https://lnkd.in/gdumAba.
Business Digest – May 2021
In this issue you’ll hear insightful ideas from successful entrepreneurs such as Marie Swift, founder and CEO of Impact Communications. “They make things happen!,” says editor Fanele Moyo. In her contributed article, Marie talks about communications and how business leaders can reassure people in uncertain times. The article also summaries the Conversations That Matter study produced by Impact Communications in partnership with Allianz Advisory Solutions in 2020. Free Subscription for a limited time only: https://www.bestbusinessdigest.com/lifetime-subscription. Read Communications Matter by Marie Swift now.
Inside Information - April 2021
Bob Veres of Inside Information provides an overview of the New Frontiers in Wealth Management report, which includes comments from sixteen experts who were interviewed for the paper, including Marie Swift of Impact Communications. Matthew Jackson of Dialektic Consulting, co-author of the paper, is already working as a Peak 2 business consultant in the advisor space, helping future-forward businesses navigate the best path through the adaptive valley. Think of the white paper as an evolutionary roadmap for a small number of advisors, and firms, who have the courage to jump out of a comfortable environment seeking something dramatically better.
New Frontiers in Wealth Management - April 2021
A new research report offers a look at the next iteration of professional financial planning firms—in four dimensions. Sixteen experts were interviewed for the paper, including Marie Swift of Impact Communications, who said that authenticity is an important element of the modern marketing equation. Written by Bob Veres of Inside Information and Matthew Jackson of Dialektic Consulting, the report provides the insights required to navigate the hyper-rapid changes and outlines the next stage of the profession’s evolution. Download the report here: dialektic.net/download/619/ or visit the summary here: dialektic.net/new-frontiers-in-wealth-management/. Watch a short video introduction by Matthew Jackson: https://vimeo.com/540011109.
NAPFA Playbook Webinar – April 2021
In this webinar, Mastering the Conversation: Client Care, Self-Care, and Lessons Learned from 2020, Marie Swift spoke with an all-star panel about improving communications skills and resiliency. Heather Kelly from Allianz Life Insurance Company of North America; John Enright, owner of a financial advisory firm and founder of the Custom Advisor Network; and Bonnie Sewell from American Capital Planning discussed what we learned via the Conversations That Matter project in 2020, and tips for mastering client conversations in 2021 and beyond. Check the NAPFA "store" for replay options.
Mindset Mastery Podcast - April 2021
In Aligning Dreams, Desire and Positive Motivation, New York Times best-selling author and industry thought leader, Steve Sanduski, talks with Mindset Mastery host Marie Swift about how people make decisions, the art of storytelling and living your dream as a financial planner today. Sanduski says that telling stories is the best way to connect heart and mind. He talks about “reframing the conversation” and reinventing ourselves on a daily basis and also shares an exercise that will help financial planners determine how referral-worthy they really are. Access all the Mindset Mastery segments here.
Executive Roundtable Journal - Q1 2021 - March 2021
Marie Swift serves as the managing editor for this quarterly journal produced specifically for board members and C-level decision-makers in the financial services industry. Click here to view this issue devoted to vision setting for 2021 and beyond.
Financial Planning - March 2021
Interesting article about advisor websites and online presence, including the cost and service spectrum, best practices, new options, etc. Marie Swift, founder and CEO of Impact Communications is one of the experts quoted. Impact’s sites start at $3,600 and go all the way up to $12,000 for richly-designed sites that come with concierge support, according to Swift. Advisors can go beyond their main web page by building “microsites.” Designed to generate leads, microsites with titles like “The 5 most important money moves for physicians” or “How to take advantage of new tax laws” invite readers to click through or fill out contact forms if they want more information. Read: How to build the best practice website — without paying $20,000.
NAPFA Playbook Webinar – March 2021
Kristin Harad and Marie Swift tag-teamed to share Growth Strategies for 2021 and beyond. They provided two different frameworks and tools for creating your own marketing plan. Swift included some calculators and templates as well. Check the NAPFA "store" for replay options.
Mindset Mastery Podcast –March 2021
In Hard Times Call for Soft Skills, best-selling author and long-time leader of the Life Centered Financial Planning movement, Mitch Anthony, talks with Mindset Mastery host Marie Swift about resiliency, positive psychology and how financial advisors can better connect with and serve their clients. He encourages us to recognize both the uniqueness and the singularity of the moment. Access all the Mindset Mastery segments here.
NAPFA Playbook Webinar – February 2021
In Implementing Your 2021 Strategy with Operations at the Wheel with Playbook emcee Marie Swift, an all-star panel of NAPFA members shares their practical tools and insights as they begin the year addressing their firm’s key objectives. A strong direction within your operations is the key to make your office run better, your people produce more, and your processes run smoother. Join us to gain insights and areas of focus you should be thinking about in this new year.
Mindset Mastery Podcast – February 2021
In Transition Fatigue and the Post-Pandemic Future, guest Susan Bradley, a leading light within the financial life planning profession, talks with Mindset Mastery host Marie Swift about opportunities and challenges for financial advisors and their clients during times of major transition – such as the pandemic. Access all the Mindset Mastery segments here.
Wealth Management – January 2021
As we look into 2021, we have to ask what changes in consumer behavior and marketing strategies are here to stay? In this article, 2021 Advisor Marketing Predictions: 36 Must-Read Insights From the Experts, Robert Sofia of Snappy Kraken provides the results of a single poll question with input from 36 of the foremost financial industry marketing experts he knows who all made a prediction. Click to read Marie Swift’s prediction.
NAPFA Playbook Webinar – January 2021
Joe Lukacs of Magellan Mastermind & Network (www.coachjoe.guru) has coached thousands of financial advisors over the course of his 30-year career. He joined Playbook 2021 emcee Marie Swift of Impact Communications to talk about why most advisors fail to achieve their true potential and how creating a written strategic plan is the secret to next-level success. Click to access replay: Make 2021 Your Breakout Year!
Advisor Perspectives – January 2021
Bob Veres references the Conversations That Matter survey conducted by Marie Swift of Impact Communications (sponsored by Allianz and the RIA support team). He talks about The State of the Profession – and What to Look for in the Coming Year.
Mindset Mastery Podcast – January 2021
In Building a Life by Choice, Not Chance, Speaker/Author/Coach Chris Yonker talks about reducing stress when we are facing critical, consequential transitions in business or life. His expertise helps individuals find out what they want and then holistically create that in business performance, sales, leadership development, succession planning, mindset, and in their own personal lives. Access all the Mindset Mastery segments here.
