5 ways to connect with millennials

5 ways to connect with millennials
Some tips from a satisfied client that could help advisers fine-tune their pitch to the next generation
FEB 22, 2020

Mario Cacciola, a 40-year-old associate attorney for a large international law firm, gets cold-called multiple times a week by financial advisers looking to begin a relationship with him now before he climbs the ladder and makes partner. Although many have rubbed him the wrong way, he eventually met one adviser he felt comfortable with. After working together several years, Mr. Cacciola said he appreciates these five things that could help other advisers who are looking to connect with the next generation.

Offer a personalized plan, do not sell me an investment
After meeting with many advisers who aggressively pushed investment products, Mr. Cacciola picked one who offered a free assessment of his financial life and presented a realistic plan to achieve his goals.

Know how to work with debt
Part of the plan for Mr. Cacciola accounted for both his student loans and some credit card debt he was working to pay off.

Don’t expect big business right away
For now, Mr. Cacciola’s adviser only handles his individual retirement account and a life insurance policy, but he hopes that as his income increases and he eventually becomes a partner, the adviser will handle his more complex finances. “He wasn’t trying to sell me, he was legit trying to figure out a way to serve me while I’m small now,” Mr. Cacciola said. “He knows he’s got a good customer going forward.”

Don’t be judgmental
Mr. Cacciola’s adviser provides an annual presentation of how he is progressing toward his goals, but he doesn’t give Mr. Cacciola too much flak when he falls short.

Be available
Mr. Cacciola’s adviser sends an automated monthly email updating him on his investments, and also makes himself available for a call whenever Mr. Cacciola has a question or a financial decision looming.

Latest News

5 best practices to brand your process & win more busines
5 best practices to brand your process & win more busines

Advisors can set their practice apart and win more business with a powerful graphic describing their unique business and value proposition.

Industry, financial experts sound off after DOL walks back crypto warning for 401(k)s
Industry, financial experts sound off after DOL walks back crypto warning for 401(k)s

The Labor Department's reversal from its 2022 guidance has drawn approval from crypto advocates – but fiduciaries must still mind their obligations.

Autopilot surges to $750M AUM, touts RIA growth as users copy Pelosi, Buffett trades
Autopilot surges to $750M AUM, touts RIA growth as users copy Pelosi, Buffett trades

With $750 million in assets and plans to hire a RIA Growth Lead, Autopilot is moving beyond retail to court advisors with separately managed accounts and integrations with RIA custodians such as Schwab and Fidelity.

RIA wrap: Former Procyon advisors launch Third View, ex-Rochdale CEO resurfaces in New York
RIA wrap: Former Procyon advisors launch Third View, ex-Rochdale CEO resurfaces in New York

Elsewhere on the East Coast, a Boca Raton-headquartered shop has acquired a fellow Florida-based RIA in "a natural evolution for both organizations."

$43B Beacon Pointe taps seasoned retirement plan specialist to lead in DFW region
$43B Beacon Pointe taps seasoned retirement plan specialist to lead in DFW region

After advising on nearly $700 million in retirement assets, 27-year veteran Greg Mykytyn is bringing his expertise in ESOP and 401(k) plans to the national RIA in Texas.

SPONSORED Beyond the dashboard: Making wealth tech human

How intelliflo aims to solve advisors' top tech headaches—without sacrificing the personal touch clients crave

SPONSORED The evolution of private credit

From direct lending to asset-based finance to commercial real estate debt.