A planner develops client skills as a means of relating to clients to discover their true goals, around which a financial plan is built. These skills also support the retention of clients and foster client confidence in providing referrals.

• Building trust is particularly vital in an area as emotionally connected as personal finance
• Working in an ever-changing economic environment requires servicing and communicating with clients on a high level
• As clients approach retirement age, many planners find themselves working with seniors and realize the unique skills that requires
• Money matters are often a family affair, requiring generational planning, or the involvement of a client's children and/or parents
• Sensitive client issues, such as special needs planning, death and divorce, demand a planner be prepared and responsive