Am I great at what I do? I like to think so.
Can I prove it? Not at all.
But I don’t believe I need to. Read on and let me know what you think…
Businesses and people seem to be urged to “prove” their value all the time. Many resort to stats and case studies etc. to do so.
But can value be proved? Or only felt?
Evidence suggests that a good financial planner is 2-3% pa of the value of your investments “better” compared to you looking after them yourself.
And that makes sense doesn’t it? I have the time, resources, knowledge and experience that you don’t.
But I can’t prove it to you, I can only help you feel it. In fact, me trying to prove it more likely stops you feeling it. Only when you feel value (or not) will you act (or not).
So, how can value be felt?
In working with any professional you want to be listened to and heard – it’s a basic human need.
You want the professional to really try to find out about you, what your preferences are, what makes you tick.
Added together that should leave you feeling that you are with someone whose sole focus is wanting to help you.
If you do not feel that or if you feel under any pressure, confused or not on the same page then my advice is to back away slowly. You are in the wrong room with the wrong person.
There is a lot at stake and so your “job” is to look out for all those feelings (or their lack) and act accordingly.
If, however, all you want is proof you run the risk of being disappointed, or worse, conned.
Always look for the feeling, that’s where the value (or not is).