Matt and Micah discuss the challenges of prospecting and marketing, emphasizing the need for realistic expectations and embracing rejection. They highlight the importance of tracking marketing strategies and learning from successful advisors. They also discuss the value of delegating tasks and using virtual assistants, as well as planning for short-term and long-term marketing strategies for new advisors.
Setting realistic expectations is crucial for effective prospecting and avoiding soul-crushing experiences.
Advisors should differentiate between marketing and advertising activities to focus on strategies that generate measurable ROI.
Deep dives
The Importance of Setting Realistic Expectations in Prospecting
Prospecting can be a soul-crushing task if you had unrealistic expectations of it being easy. Oftentimes, advisors believe that obtaining a certain qualification or certification will automatically attract clients, only to be disappointed when that doesn't happen. It is crucial to set realistic internal expectations when it comes to prospecting, whether it be for marketing or advertising activities. Understanding that prospecting is challenging and requires putting oneself in uncomfortable positions is key to navigating the process.
The Importance of Tracking and Evaluating Marketing Activities
Marketing activities should be focused on achieving a direct return on investment (ROI) rather than seeking popularity or social media likes. Every marketing strategy needs to have measurable results, such as captured emails, scheduled appointments, or class enrollments. By tracking and evaluating the ROI of marketing activities, advisors can determine what is effective and what is simply advertising. This distinction allows for better allocation of resources and the ability to focus efforts on strategies that lead to tangible results.
The Need to Risk Rejection in Prospecting
Prospecting requires advisors to risk a 'no' and face potential rejection. Many advisors fall into the trap of avoiding prospecting by engaging in other non-productive activities, such as rebranding or pursuing passive advertising strategies. The reality is that prospecting involves risking rejection and being willing to take the necessary steps to turn education into action. Prospecting is the key to transforming clients' lives, and advisors must be willing to take the risk in order to create a truly impactful and successful practice.
Differentiating Marketing and Advertising Activities
It is important to differentiate between marketing and advertising activities. Marketing activities should focus on activities that directly generate a return on investment, such as capturing emails or scheduling appointments. On the other hand, advertising activities, such as having a fancy website or sponsoring events, are important for brand awareness and community involvement, but they may not have a direct measurable ROI. Understanding this distinction allows advisors to allocate their resources effectively and prioritize activities that lead to tangible results.
Matt and Micah are diving into the world of prospecting and marketing, shedding light on the challenges that often lead to soul-crushing experiences. They stress the significance of setting realistic expectations, as many advisors underestimate the difficulty of these tasks, but embracing rejection and risk-taking is essential for effective prospecting. They’ll share how they make sure to draw a clear line between marketing and advertising activities, highlighting the need for measurable ROI and client action and caution against falling into the trap of following flashy success stories without considering the hard work behind them.