This newly qualified planner has a full week of client meetings but still manages to fit in a dog walk or two
Monday
The morning commute is from the bedroom to the living room. I check emails, only to find a client of mine won the lottery over the weekend and needs advice on their new-found fortune. Then I wake up.
The day truthfully starts with an introductory meeting with a new client. I then contact another to discuss a pension transfer, income recommendation and forms. As many reading this will know, there is a lot to go through.
Lunchtime is our team of four’s weekly video catch-up. We all discuss what we are working on that week. In the evening I meet a friend for a walk round Clapham Common in the rain.
Tuesday
2020 has flown and I am approaching the end of year one as a financial planner and renew my statement of professional standing. On reflection, it has been a weird year to start this career.
I have a video call with a corporate client, discussing setting up a new category in their group pension.
I also check cases that have completed and update clients. Next I speak to a client about a new mortgage enquiry.
My final meeting is a video call with two investment managers at Quilter Cheviot, discussing how we can collaborate for clients, tap into their knowledge and involve them in meetings.
Wednesday
We are migrating onto the new Quilter (formerly Old Mutual Wealth) platform, so I join a webinar for a final reminder of the changes.
Later in the day I have a presentation call with a client about a fund switch, which they were happy with.
I also receive an email from a client about amending their mortgage offer, so I speak to the lender to get the new offer letter issued.
Afterwards I speak with a couple to discuss their proposed investment with Quilter Cheviot.
Thursday
Today I have another new client and then later on I speak with a different client to talk about life assurance that will cover her mortgage payments, as well as income protection.
I then review the proposal put together by Quilter Cheviot for the client I spoke with yesterday.
Today is also our weekly team financial planner call, for general updates, as well as an open discussion.
Friday
This morning we have a wider Quilter team call – today’s focus is ‘meet the portfolio manager’.
Usually this event is in person, where clients can ask Quilter’s fund managers questions, but despite it being virtual this year, it is still a great opportunity for clients.
The rest of the day consists mainly of admin.
After finishing work I settle down to watch some films.
I am looking forward to a quiet weekend, including a dog walk with Stuart, the paraplanner in our team, and Luna, his adorable Cane Corso.
Aaron Steel is a financial planner at Quilter Private Client Advisers
If you would like to write a Diary of an Adviser then contact Ima Jackson-Obot at ima.jacksonobot@ft.com
