7 Tips for Success From 500 Top Financial Professionals

Imagine if you had a chance to sit in a room with 500 top financial professionals. Imagine learning from them over the course of a two- to three-day period.

What would you ask them? What would you hope to learn about being a successful financial professional?

(Related: Why Advisors Shouldn’t Measure Success by Money Alone)

I consider myself lucky in that I recently found myself in this exact situation. I attended Advisors Excel’s Journey event in Salt Lake City, an event that brings together many of the most successful independent financial professionals every year. While the city that hosted the event was beautiful, the tips and lessons I learned about the success of a financial professional were second to none.

They can help you whether you are simply trying to sell life insurance policies and annuities, help clients develop comprehensive retirement plans or general financial plans, or just live a good life.

I wanted to share with you the top seven things I discovered from these 500 titans of the industry:

1. It’s Beyond the Money

A lot of people believe that being a successful financial advisor is all about the money. However, after meeting with 500 of the best independent financial professionals in the country, this isn’t true. In each of the conversations I had, the focus wasn’t money, but was instead about hiring and empowering amazing employees, bringing more value to clients and prospects, and building a business that makes a lasting impact.

If you want to make money, you need to focus on the things beyond the money.

2. Surround Yourself With Other Successful People

The most successful financial professionals are also the ones who love to learn from others. They’re eager to connect with interesting and successful people and pick their brain. They want to be a part of a successful group of people who have common interests and enjoy seeing others succeed.

Many financial professionals in the group were part of a small group, or “mastermind” group, where they get together 2-3 times a year to share what they are doing. They know they’ll be more successful if they rub elbows with other success-minded people.

3. Always Be Grateful

Successful financial professionals are constantly thankful for their peers, partners, family, and friends. A common theme I picked up on was the fact that I heard the words “thank you” at least 100 times during my stay in Salt Lake City. Everyone from a fellow financial professional to the hotel staff received a hearty thank you from the top independent professionals.

Gratitude was so prevalent during the conference that I wrote a note in my phone, “always thank others and show your appreciations.” Successful financial professionals aren’t selfish, but instead recognize everyone who has and are continuing to helping them along their journey.

4. Keep a Positive Outlook