See full profile: Irene Financial Advisor- Elzette Brits
Were you always planning to be a Financial Advisor and why?
No, it happened by chance. A friend of mine worked at one of the big insurance companies and he convinced me to go for an interview. I didn't expect to be appointed, but looking back at 22 years in the industry, I have never regretted my decision!
When meeting with clients do they mostly come to your own premises or do you mostly go their theirs?
Most of my meetings are actually online. I use technology to my advantage, and have found that a lot of clients prefer this method of communication. It is fast and effective. Alternatively, I meet them in person.
What is your preferred mode of communication with your clients?
Email, Phone, Skype, WhatsApp
Have you ever done an online video call with a client?
Yes
What do you love most about being a financial advisor
The diversity of the job, helping people to meet their objectives, flexibility in my working hours.
Would you recommend becoming a financial advisor as a career for school-leavers, and why?
No in fact I wouldn't. The reason being that in the economic environment we are living in today makes it very difficult for a newcomer to secure a solid client base. I would rather recommend a more risk averse career.
What qualities should South Africans be looking for in their financial advisor?
Honesty, knowledge, experience, independence from any insurer.
What is the biggest challenge facing financial advisors today?
Fluctuating economic environment, consumer uncertainty.
What aspects of financial advising do you focus on most?
Risk, Income protection, Business Assurance
Describe your average client:
Aged 30 - 55, business owner or professional
How far away from your premises is your furthest client?
5km
From your financial advising experience, if you could cite one of the biggest reasons financial goals, what would it be?
They don't save enough.
What financial software do you like best?
Atwork
What other software, online services or apps do you use?
Asset TV, excel, Mint
Do you think the coming wave of automation in the next few years will steal some financial advisor jobs and why/why not?
No, as nothing can replace the human touch.
What is your opinion on Bitcoin?
I think it has it's place in the market, and it is personal preference or not.
What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?
Hunting! and reading, spending time with the family.
What is the most interesting thing on your bucket list?
Seeing the Northern Lights, visiting the Jagermeister factory in Wolfenbuttel, Germany.
What has your experience been on FindanAdvisor?
Found some of my best clients here!
See how our other local South African accountants have answered the above questions.
