Advisors who expand their role increase their value

Plan sponsors see the greatest value in advisors who have shifted from solely an investment-centric approach to one which includes a focus on helping employees. With the increased stress and uncertainty brought on by the pandemic, employees have been looking to their employers for support in improving their financial health and retirement readiness. In turn, plan sponsors recognize a need for greater advisor engagement with their employees, and appreciate advisors who provide communication and guidance that can help improve employee satisfaction and future outcomes.

What you should know

The top 3 responses to a recent survey1 that asked the question, “What do plan sponsors value most about their advisors?” were:

  • Helps improve employee outcomes
  • Helps improve employee satisfaction

  • Provides financial advice or guidance to employees

The number of plan sponsors that reported they are looking to change advisors more than doubled in the past year—from 16% in 2020 to 34% in 20211. The primary reason for wanting to change plan advisors was a desire for better employee communication and education1.

Many employees are unable to save adequately for retirement because they face more immediate financial challenges or responsibilities. Advisors who are able to provide access to general financial wellness tools and resources can help employees become better able to save for retirement.

An organization’s bottom line can be negatively impacted by employee financial stress and delayed retirement. Advisors who work with employees to help reduce financial stress and map a clear path to their future can have a powerful, positive impact on workplace productivity.

Plan sponsors who wish to partner with employee-centric advisors need to choose carefully since not all advisors have evolved beyond the traditional investment focus of their role. A customizable, client-centric process to assist employees along their path to retirement readiness is key.