Cultivating your tech strategy: Tips from other advisors
Digital tools can help you run your firm more efficiently, reduce costs, and give your clients a simpler experience. But one thing technologies can't do is tell you how to find the right tools for your firm's goals and optimize your investment.
We asked advisors who have embraced technology for their insights on becoming a digital-forward firm. Here's a sampling of their advice. Be sure to check out the full case studies for more detail.
Harness the power of your CRM
Some firms use their customer relationship management system (CRM) to store client data and little else. Calling their CRM "the heartbeat of our organization," Jamie Wilson believes advisors should think bigger. Much bigger.
Jamie's advice
- Build as many workflows as you can into your CRM. By going all in, you'll deliver great client experiences and save a lot of time in the end.
- Build with integration in mind. Add applications only if they play well with your CRM and other systems. That will help you boost efficiency, save time, and minimize errors.
- Don't be afraid to explore new technology. Keep asking, is there a better CRM? Can we make the client and employee experiences better? Schwab's consultants and resources can help you think through these decisions.
Read how Jamie's firm embraced technology and transformed client service with its CRM.
Adopt a digital mindset across the firm
How can a team of paper pushers become a tech-savvy firm? According to Matt Reiner, it comes down to giving everyone a stake in the process.
Matt's advice
- To build a digital company, build a digital culture. Empower everyone in your firm to suggest changes in your digital processes or take the lead on new digital tools. Treat your successes—and failures—as learning opportunities.
- Assign a project owner for each project. Give this person primary responsibility for working with vendors and Schwab to integrate the technology, train others in your firm, and troubleshoot early issues.
- Don't try to do too much too quickly. Focus on one business vertical at a time. Consult with Schwab's tech experts to make sure you're investing in technology your firm actually needs.
Read how Matt's firm successfully tackled DocuSign integration during COVID-19.
What you can do next
- See how your Schwab digital tools measure up to your peers with our technology adoption dashboard.
- Learn how to jumpstart your digital journey.
For general informational and educational purposes only.
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