�ǿ����޴�ý

When fear and uncertainty find their way into headlines, regardless of the cause, investors can feel a sense of uncertainty or panic. As their trusted Financial Professional, how can you guide them to stay the course with the long-term financial plan you’ve carefully constructed for them?��

Here are five quick ways to focus client conversations and provide reassurance during election season and beyond.

1. Breathe, Don’t Panic. . If a client expresses the desire to deviate from their financial plan, remind them that this could potentially threaten their long-term financial goals.��
   ��
2. Separate Fact from Opinion. Between the noise of social media and the 24/7 news cycle, we’re constantly bombarded with a variety of opinions and concerning headlines. During times of uncertainty, it’s especially important to help clients focus on the facts surrounding the market and economy. Consider reviewing with them the historical performance of market to help allay their fears. The more you can focus on facts and data, the better!
   ��
3. ��Remember the Long-Term “Why.” Remind your clients why they’re investing for the long term. A common reason is to set aside some current assets and income for future needs. Assuming that hasn’t changed, reiterate the cost of trying to time the market. As the old adage goes, “Time in the market beats timing the market.”
   ��
4. ��Discuss Fears and Concerns. You’re a Financial Professional, not a therapist – but don’t underestimate the trust and confidence your clients have placed in you. Help your clients navigate the short-term emotional swings of personal finance by giving them space to discuss their angst and fears. The more you understand what’s causing them concern, the better you can tailor your professional guidance to their specific situation.
   ��
5. Stay Diversified. When appropriate, a well-diversified portfolio can often alleviate concerns about being invested in the right place at the right time. Review with your client how their assets are allocated among various asset classes and remind them that their portfolio is diversified among several investment vehicles. This will demonstrate how you’ve provided them with an efficiently diversified portfolio strategy that reduces volatility.

Read more about the impacts of emotionally charged investing in our recent blog.

Neither Asset Allocation nor Diversification assure or guarantee better performance and cannot eliminate the risk of investment losses.