Women advisors should ‘believe they belong and recognize that’

investmentnews.com:

The InvestmentNews Women Advisor Summit in Chicago on Thursday began not only with an uplifting message but ended with the female movers and shakers in the industry feeling more empowered and inspired to do more.

Former Canadian Women’s hockey player and motivational speaker, Cheryl Pounder, opened the day with several remarks and anecdotes, encouraging women to be trailblazers and take their place in the industry.

“Don’t wait for failure to react, stay ahead of the curve. Challenge yourself. Get to know yourself,” she said. “Every year we have more to give, and we continually learn to grow. That’s why it’s harder. Because we always have room for improvement.”

Pounder reflected on several instances in her hockey career, noting that all the ups and downs paid off when she became a 2x Olympic gold winner. She recalled one instance of a woman hockey veteran who told Pounder to take her time playing the game, comparing this to advisors’ mentors and relationships with clients.

“I didn’t know she was going to give me that kind of confidence and the ripple effect of it, but I started to play at an alarmingly good rate. I felt like I could now because someone else helped me,” she reflected.

Thinking back to that woman, Pounder said she thinks back to character.

“Character is linked to our disposition, not our position. Our disposition, and what we want to be in terms of that character, builds relationships,” she added. “We have to be present. Engage and share. Know your impact, have an impact. Believe you belong and recognize that. Understand the relationships and know the tools in your toolbox. Continue to stay at the top.”

GROWING YOUR BUSINESS

Pounder’s keynote was followed by a panel on client acquisition and growth, which