"Being aware of where you want to be in this space is important and your approach can be as big or as small as is relevant to your business size."
In the latest Accord Growth Series podcast, Janis Hambling highlighted the need for those in client-facing roles to be mindful of the diverse range of vulnerabilities that may be encountered and suggests what brokers and their firms can do to ensure they are providing the most appropriate support.
She stresses the need to have a real purpose when approaching vulnerability, being clear about what the business wants to achieve and engaging employees in what you are going to do and what you are not going to do.
Whilst positive steps have been made with the increase in awareness of mental health vulnerabilities, which can affect people’s capability to make big financial decisions as well as impact their employability and ability to make repayments, Hambling warns that vulnerability isn’t always obvious.
She said: “We all have the potential to experience it at any stage in our life journey so it’s vital to consider existing customers as well as new. When delivering advice, brokers need to be aware of life events, such as divorce and bereavement, which can significantly impact people’s decisions, both in the short and long term.”
Accord's Nick Piper, who hosts the podcast, added: “Ensuring you provide the best advice to a client is paramount for any broker, but sometimes there are other barriers or needs which need to be considered. Being aware of where you want to be in this space is important and your approach can be as big or as small as is relevant to your business size.
“The Growth Series is all about expanding knowledge in the broader business-critical areas and it was fascinating talking to Janis, who is clearly very passionate about ensuring every client is given the right support at the right time and is treated in a sensitive and empathetic way.”
