Most people say that New Year resolutions are only as good as the paper on which they are written. Notwithstanding that ringing endorsement, I will give it a shot.
Here are some things that you should be resolved to doing in the New Year:
- Read the SEC and FINRA exam priority letters that each issue shortly after the New Year.
- Reevaluate your data security policies and procedures by testing it with internal and external threats.
- Reevaluate your policies and procedures regarding the client relationships you maintain with anyone over the age of 65.
- Communicate (in either writing or telephonically) with all of your clients at least once a quarter.
- Only communicate with your clients through a form of communication that is approved and monitored by your firm.
- Have a written follow-up communications after you speak with your clients.
- Put in writing to your clients those instances where your clients ignore your advice.
- Never put anything in an email that you are unwilling to see blown up 1000 times as an exhibit in a trial or disciplinary proceeding.
- Hold on tight for the roller-coaster ride that we may see in the markets next year; your clients will expect you to be the voice and reason and calm.
- If a client makes a complaint, immediately report it up the chain, and do not try to resolve it yourself.
I am sure each of you could think of more thinks to resolve yourself to doing. So have it and best wishes for a healthy, happy and prosperous New Year.
* photo from freedigitalphotos.net