Leading a successful advice practice in 2025
Assured Support shares eight strategies to help financial advice businesses thrive this new year through focused and consistent planning.
From doubling down on client relationships to recalibrating your value proposition, Assured Support managing director, Sean Graham, has unpacked how financial advisers can achieve success in 2025.
Last year saw the advice industry reach a “pivotal moment of transformation and renewal”, according to Adviser Ratings, thanks to the stabilisation of adviser numbers, regulatory reform, rise of super advice firms, technology adoption and greater professional development.
1. Strengthen client relationships
As clients demand personalised financial plans alongside regular and transparent communication, Graham encouraged advisers to deepen relationships with existing clients this year.
This includes prioritising time to listen to your clients’ financial goals, fears and aspirations during reviews or casual check-ins.
“Then, segment your clients meaningfully. Grouping clients solely by assets under management is old-school. Instead, consider grouping them by life stages, goals, or attitudes towards risk. This approach allows you to personalise your services and stand out,” he explained.
For some advisers, this could mean specialising in certain client niches. Money Management recently spoke with two advisers who are focused on “untapped markets” to provide specialised advice.
2. Seek simplification over complexity
An adviser’s ability to simplify complex financial strategies to clients in a digestible way will set them apart, Graham said. Rather than immediately diving into detailed investment strategies, advisers can begin by explaining the reasons behind a specific strategy or portfolio structure.
“For instance, instead of describing an asset allocation as ‘diversified among low-beta equities and high-yield bonds,’ you could say: ‘We’ve chosen investments that balance growth potential with stability to weather market ups and downs’.”
3. Balance technology with human touch
Last year proved the importance of widespread technological adoption in advice practices, meaning advisers should reassess how they harness technology to drive further efficiencies in 2025.
According to the managing director, technology and artificial intelligence can be embedded to automate repetitive tasks, analyse market trends and streamline compliance.
However, Graham stated: “Don’t forget that a chatbot can’t (yet) replicate the reassurance of your voice during a market downturn. Don’t rage against the machine but instead use technology to enhance – not replace – your human expertise.”
A recent report from Capgemini explored how AI can create personalised messages, experiences and offers for each client, as well as tailor product recommendations to suit individual preferences, thus generating engagement and client loyalty.
4. Prioritise professional development
The importance of continuous learning will continue to ring true this year, particularly ahead of incoming regulatory changes relating to the Delivering Better Financial Outcomes (DBFO) legislation.
Graham encouraged advisers to focus on expanding their skill sets in 2025, which could mean mastering a particular area of advice such as behavioural finance or ESG investing.
Earlier this month, recruitment firm people2people encouraged employers to invest in upskilling programs such as on-demand training and skills workshops to keep staff engaged this year.
5. Set ambitious goals
Setting clear and attainable aims for your business includes quantifying the goal, breaking it down with specific steps and measuring progress over a certain time frame.
“Vague goals produce vague results. ‘I want to grow my business’ isn’t enough. What does success in 2025 look like to you?”
6. Build a professional network
Working with other professionals is another critical strategy for advisers seeking success this year, Graham added. This could mean fostering partnerships with accountants or estate planners, seeking out a mentor or mentoring others in your network.
Last year, Findex unpacked how a team of specialists can provide a better experience for clients, with advisers and accountants urged to have a close relationship. Effective collaboration between the two professions can help clients manage their finances more efficiently, as well as provide referral opportunities between the two professionals.
7. Reassess work/life balance
For advice professionals wearing multiple hats within a firm, delegating certain tasks to external service providers or other staff within the business can allow leaders to focus their attention on high-value tasks.
“Regular breaks and setting realistic work limits can help maintain the energy needed for long-term success,” the managing director said.
“Establish a ‘well-being audit’ to regularly evaluate your mental and physical health. Dedicate a day each month to reflecting on your stress levels, workload, and personal time allocation, making adjustments as needed to maintain a sustainable work-life balance.”
8. Review your value proposition
Re-evaluating your practice’s value proposition starts with conducting a client feedback survey to understand where the strengths and weaknesses lie in the business for future improvement.
Graham elaborated: “Clients no longer pay for access to information – they pay for clarity, confidence and results. Reflect on how you deliver those outcomes. Are you highlighting them enough? If not, revise your messaging to ensure it reflects your unique value.”
With the price of seeing an adviser continuing to rise, it has become imperative for advisers to effectively communicate the worth and value of their service offering to clients, according to Business Health.
The organisation provided recommendations for advisers looking to improve their value proposition, such as reassessing how the business articulates value to clients.
Similarly, a Netwealth webinar suggested that advisers communicate the tangible financial benefits of advice where possible, as well as the emotional benefits that seeing an adviser brings.
AUTHOR
Jasmine Siljic
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