The first step is to deeply understand the financial numbers. For a billion-dollar RIA with a blended fee rate of 70 bps, annual revenue is $7 million. To grow by 15%, the firm needs to generate an additional $1.05 million in revenue. This understanding sets the foundation for strategy and tactics.
Defining the ideal client profile ensures that marketing efforts are tailored to attract the desired audience. It’s not about who the firm has served in the past but who they want to serve in the future. This involves understanding the client’s lifestyle, decision-making process, and financial needs to create resonance and magnetism.
Experimentation is crucial in digital marketing as it allows firms to test different strategies and tactics to see what resonates with their target audience. This could include testing various ad creatives, content formats, or channels. The iterative process of testing, learning, and refining helps optimize marketing efforts for better results.
Content marketing is essential because it demonstrates expertise and provides value to potential clients. High-net-worth individuals often have complex financial questions, and content that addresses these needs can position the firm as a trusted advisor. It also helps in building magnetism and resonance with the target audience.
A billion-dollar RIA should invest in a custom website rather than using a templated solution. Custom websites are better optimized for SEO, provide a unique user experience, and can be tailored to meet the sophisticated needs of high-net-worth clients. The website should be the center of the firm’s digital universe, integrating all marketing efforts.
A common mistake is prioritizing tactics over strategy. Firms often jump into specific marketing tactics like video or social media without a clear overarching strategy. Another mistake is using generic, templated websites that fail to differentiate the firm or resonate with the target audience. Effective marketing requires a strategic approach aligned with the firm’s growth goals.
Webinars remain viable but need to evolve to meet changing consumer preferences. Instead of long, hour-long sessions, firms should focus on shorter, more engaging webinars that solve specific problems in 15 minutes. Incorporating Q&A sessions and interactive elements can also enhance engagement and effectiveness.
Passion is critical for the success of marketing tactics like YouTube. If an advisor is not passionate about creating videos or being on camera, the content is unlikely to resonate with the audience. Passion drives the effort needed to master the platform, experiment with formats, and consistently produce high-quality content.
The founder of XNW Digital provides a step-by-step roadmap to help advisors accelerate growth at their firms. Host: Steve Sanduski, CFP.