Timely template letter: Kickstart client communication with this holiday template letter

(December 2004) Not sure where to begin when it comes to taking your client communications to the next level? Start by sending this letter, which wishes clients the best for a bright 2005 and contains important reminders concerning life changes and this year’s RRSP season:

Dear [Client’s name],

As the holidays approach and 2004 draws to a close, I wanted to take a minute to thank you for your business over the last year. If you’ve referred a friend, relative or colleague in the last 12 months, I’d also like to tell you how much I appreciate it — it’s always an honour to receive a personal recommendation, and it’s a pleasure to help new clients reach their financial goals.

I hope that the past year has been a good one for you and your loved ones. The markets have certainly improved, with the S&P/TSX Composite Index nearly 15% higher than it was this time last year. But even though the markets have performed well, it’s important to remember that the success of your investments doesn’t depend on just one year’s returns, but rather on your commitment to remain invested over the long term. Goals are reached over decades, not just months. That’s easy to forget sometimes!

While it’s hard to say what the future holds, the financial plan we have built together should see you through both good and bad times. In order for the plan to work for you, however, it must be up to date. Over the last 12 months, have there been any changes in your life that might affect your personal financial situation — such as a different employment status or the birth of a new child? As you look ahead to 2005, do you see any other changes coming?

Be sure to keep me in the loop as you meet these new challenges, so that I can help you not only manage risks, but also take advantage of new opportunities that may present themselves.

The end of the year also represents the beginning of the RRSP season – a busy time for financial advisors. If you are not making regular monthly contributions or haven’t already made your investment for 2004, don’t forget to book an appointment to see me as soon as you are able. Time is getting short, and we only have January and February left before the deadline. Ideally, we will be able to sit down and make investment decisions before March, but if that’s not possible, we can always just deposit your RRSP savings into a short-term savings vehicle until we have a chance to fully discuss your options. The important thing is to get that money inside your plan before March 1st!

Once again, thank you for choosing me as your financial advisor. As always, should you have any questions about your financial situation, please don’t hesitate to contact me at the number above – it would be great to hear from you.

With my very best wishes for a happy holiday season and health and happiness in 2005,

[Your signature]

[Your name]

12/07/04