Advocis conference update: Maritime Life chief reminds advisors true value is in client relationships

By John Craig | June 12, 2003 | Last updated on June 12, 2003
3 min read
  • Describe scenarios instead of making predictions;
  • Remember their true value is in providing outcomes, not illustrations; and
  • Keep in close contact with clients.

During his freewheeling and entertaining presentation, Black also touched on bank mergers (he’s against them, saying they don’t serve the customer’s best interests), insurance company consolidation (he thinks the industry is nearing a point where legislation may be required to prevent further mergers) and his view of “tied” versus independent advisors. “I happen to think it’s easier to be an independent than to be a tied agent so you can sit on the customer’s side of the table, but it is not the most important thing,” said Black.

Black also had a couple of general business lessons up his sleeve for his audience that included avoiding focusing too much on the short term. “I will show you exhibit A for that — the stock market,” said Black. “You all are preparing 10-, 15- and 20-year plans for your customers and you look at the stock market [daily]… it’s kind of interesting, but it has nothing to do with running your business.”

• • •

Filed by John Craig, Advisor.ca, jcraig@advisor.ca.

(06/12/03)

John Craig

  • Describe scenarios instead of making predictions;
  • Remember their true value is in providing outcomes, not illustrations; and
  • Keep in close contact with clients.

During his freewheeling and entertaining presentation, Black also touched on bank mergers (he’s against them, saying they don’t serve the customer’s best interests), insurance company consolidation (he thinks the industry is nearing a point where legislation may be required to prevent further mergers) and his view of “tied” versus independent advisors. “I happen to think it’s easier to be an independent than to be a tied agent so you can sit on the customer’s side of the table, but it is not the most important thing,” said Black.

Black also had a couple of general business lessons up his sleeve for his audience that included avoiding focusing too much on the short term. “I will show you exhibit A for that — the stock market,” said Black. “You all are preparing 10-, 15- and 20-year plans for your customers and you look at the stock market [daily]… it’s kind of interesting, but it has nothing to do with running your business.”

• • •

Filed by John Craig, Advisor.ca, jcraig@advisor.ca.

(06/12/03)