In a survey research project designed to understand client reactions, we examined behaviors, satisfaction, and preferences among clients of a growing firm in the Southeast. Clients were overwhelmingly satisfied with the firm’s service and advice, and the majority (92%) would recommend the firm to others. In addition to the survey (Likert) statements and other quantitative-type survey questions, we also asked clients a few open-ended questions. Combining qualitative and quantitative data provides a richness that …
Independent of our unique individual personality traits, values, and attitudes, we know that financial decisions and behaviors have the most significant impact on achieving money goals. Carrie Rattle, CEO & Founder of Behavioral Cents, is a financial therapist and coach who works to engage clients in exploring their money beliefs with the ultimate goal of helping to optimize their financial behaviors. In the brief conversation below, we explore how Carrie uses behavioral assessments in …
Part of the benefit of using behavioral assessments in financial planning is the ability to help clients understand why they make particular spending, saving, and investing decisions. Uncovering the “why” behind financial choices can open up a world of conversations and growth, growth that can lead to positive change. Maggie Klokkenga, CPA, CFP®, founder of Make A Money Mindshift, shared how she uses the power of assessments to help clients achieve what matters most through financial coaching packages …
Individual personality traits can (and do) impact whether a client achieves financial goals. Behavioral assessments can help uncover client personality, values, attitudes, and beliefs. In turn, you can use this information to help provide the client with personalized guidance, education, coaching, or nudging to help them follow the financial plan and otherwise achieve goals. Below, we will discuss best practices in implementing behavioral assessments in a financial planning client workflow. Let’s start with a …
CFP’s View of Financial Planning and Psychology In 2021, the CFP Board announced changes to their Principal Knowledge Topics for educational programs for those seeking or with the Certified Financial Planner (CFP) designation. This change includes a new section representing 7% of the educational component, entitled “The Psychology of Financial Planning.” For those of us at DataPoints who have been writing about financial psychology and the psychology of building wealth for quite some time, …

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