As a financial adviser who runs a virtual practice, video conferencing with my clients is pretty routine. However, for those new to the technology, it can seem a little intimidating at first. Today, I will address some of the common concerns prospective clients have about the video conferencing experience.
It’s too complicated
Let me assure you that video conferencing requires no special technical skills whatsoever. If you can use email or check your Facebook page, you have the technical know-how to handle a video conference. For those new to the video conferencing experience, I always allow extra time for the first appointment and call to help troubleshoot any potential difficulties.
I don't have the right equipment.
Most video conferencing services, including the one I use, will work on a laptop, tablet, or smartphone. However, I recommend using a laptop or tablet like an iPad or Kindle to join the meeting as the screens on most smart phones are too small to suit the need.
I don’t want to be on camera
You control whether you want to be on screen. Furthermore, I generally only use the screen sharing feature with clients so we can view documents together. This feature is especially helpful when discussing insurance applications, financial plans, or other documents. It allows us to literally be on the same page.
It’s not secure
While no technology is 100% foolproof, here are some of the steps taken to make sure clients’ information remains secure during a video conference:
• A unique password is generated for each meeting
• Any participant looking to join a meeting must wait in a virtual “lobby” until they are permitted to enter.
• Documents are never stored or transferred within the video conference software.
I prefer to meet in-person
After experiencing it for themselves, even the most apprehensive clients have come to enjoy, and even prefer, the video conferencing experience. They appreciate the flexibility this technology allows and find that it fits their busy schedules much better than in-person, face-to-face meetings.
One of the challenges of the financial planning process is how overwhelming it can seem. Video conferencing allows the process to be broken down into bite-sized meetings (usually no more than 30 minutes) that clients can join from anywhere whether meeting over a lunch break, waiting to catch their flight, or while the kids do their homework.
For more information regarding my services or to schedule a complementary phone consultation, please visit www.davidiobst.com.
About the author: David A. Iobst is a Certified Financial Planner based in Bear, DE. He specializes in working remotely with clients and is currently accepting new clients in DE, PA, and MD.