The Surprising Reason Why Newly Wealthy Clients Become So Controlling
Sep 18, 2023
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The podcast explores the psychological challenges faced by newly wealthy clients, why they become controlling, and the difficulties advisors face in gaining their trust. It also discusses the concept of locus of control and the importance of engaging with these clients to guide them through the transition to wealth management.
Newly wealthy clients often struggle to trust their existing advisor due to a shift in locus of control from running their business to advisor-managed investments.
The transition from internal to external locus of control brings about anxiety, loss of control, and doubt in business owners, requiring advisors to address these emotions and engage in collaborative decision-making.
Deep dives
The Challenges of Working with Business Owners After a Big Sale
After selling their business, business owners often become difficult clients for financial advisors. This can be attributed to a shift in their locus of control, from internal (running the business) to external (advisor-managed investments). Business owners may experience buyer's remorse and become anxious about their financial security. Advisors need to understand and address their clients' anxiety, engaging with highly controlling or avoidant clients in a collaborative manner. Additionally, advisors should prepare clients for the complexity of managing wealth and help them transition into this new stage of life. Advisors who navigate these challenges can help clients gradually reduce their anxiety over time and develop a healthy collaborative relationship.
The Profound Transition of Locus of Control
The transition from internal locus of control (running the business) to external locus of control (advisor-managed investments) is a significant emotional and psychological shift for business owners. They may struggle with feelings of loss of control, fear of making wrong decisions, and doubts about their advisor's expertise and trustworthiness. This shift often leads to increased anxiety and a need for reassurance and collaboration. Advisors need to recognize that this transition is not just about managing money, but also about helping clients navigate the complexities of wealth and finding new meaning in life beyond the business. By understanding and addressing this transition, advisors can guide clients towards a healthier external locus of control and a more secure financial future.
Manifesting Anxiety: Highly Controlling and Avoidant Clients
Anxiety in business owners after selling their business can manifest in different ways. Highly controlling clients may become hyper-involved, questioning every decision and seeking control over their investments. Avoidant clients, on the other hand, may detach themselves from decision-making and exhibit a lack of engagement. Both extremes stem from anxiety and a desire to regain a sense of control. Advisors should engage with highly controlling clients, providing frequent communication, collaborating on investment decisions, and helping them gradually reduce their anxiety. With avoidant clients, advisors should create a structured post-transaction plan, educating them about the complexities of wealth management and helping them overcome feelings of overwhelm.
The Importance of Addressing Locus of Control Challenges
Addressing the challenges of locus of control is crucial for successful advisor-client relationships. Advisors must recognize that their clients' locus of control has shifted from internal to external and acknowledge the anxiety and uncertainties that come with this transition. By engaging with clients, educating them about the intricacies of wealth management, and reassuring them of their control and decision-making power, advisors can help clients move towards a healthier, collaborative approach. Additionally, advisors should be mindful of clients potentially looping back into familiar territory, such as starting new businesses, which can hinder their development in effectively managing their wealth. Through effective communication and guidance, advisors can help clients embrace their new role as wealth managers and build a secure future.
It’s surprisingly difficult for newly wealthy clients to trust their existing advisor. In most cases, these clients labored for years to become financially secure, but many achieve significant wealth because of a particular event. When this happens, advisors are often surprised that the client suddenly becomes less trusting and more controlling. Here, Scott and Ken explore the psychological challenges that people face when they achieve a higher level of wealth. They discuss why it is hard to surrender complete control of your financial destiny.
The information contained herein reflects the views of AllianceBernstein L.P. or its affiliates and sources it believes are reliable as of the date of this production. AllianceBernstein L.P. makes no representation or warranties concerning the accuracy of any data. There is no guarantee that any projection, forecast or opinion in this material will be realized. Past performance does not guarantee future results. The views expressed here may change at any time after the date of this publication. This video segment is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice. AllianceBernstein L.P. does not provide tax, legal or accounting advice. It does not take an investor's personal investment objectives or financial situation into account; investors should discuss their individual circumstances with appropriate professionals before making any decisions. This information should not be construed as sales or marketing material or an offer or solicitation for the purchase or sale of any financial instrument, product or service sponsored by AB or its affiliates. References to specific securities are presented solely in the context of industry analysis and are not to be considered recommendations by AB. AB and its affiliates may have positions in, and may affect transactions in, the markets, industry sectors, and companies described herein.
It is important to note that not all Financial Advisors are consultants or investment managers; consulting and investment management are advisory activities, not brokerage activities, and are governed by different securities laws and also by different firm procedures and guidelines. For some clients, only brokerage functions can be performed for a client, unless the client utilizes one or more advisory products. Further, Financial Advisors must follow their firm’s internal policies and procedures with respect to certain activities (e.g., advisory, financial planning) or when dealing with certain types of clients (e.g., trusts, foundations). In addition, it is important to remember that any outside business activity including referral networks be conducted in accordance with your firm’s policies and procedures. Contact your branch manager and/or compliance department with any questions regarding your business practices, creating a value proposition or any other activities (including referral networks). It is important to remember that (i) all planning services must be completed in accordance with your firm’s internal policies and procedures; (ii) you may only use approved tools, software and forms in the performance of planning services; and (iii) only Financial Advisors who are properly licensed may engage in financial planning. For financial representative use only. Not for inspection by, distribution or quotation to, the general public.
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