When you take a proactive approach to dealing with your clients, you differentiate yourself from other financial advisors, says April-Lynn Levitt, a coach with The Personal Coach in Toronto.

The advisors who stand out in the minds of their clients, she adds, are those who make the first move in getting in touch and sharing ideas and guidance.

Here are three ways to be proactive with your clients:

1. Ask for feedback
Being informed of your clients’ opinions is critical, whether you ask a few questions at the end of a meeting or you conduct a formal survey.

Clients appreciate being asked, Levitt says. They sense that their feedback is valued and will see that you want to improve the service you provide.

Ask your clients about their feelings regarding your relationship. What areas can you improve? What have they found the most helpful in the relationship? Is the client satisfied with the level of contact you have outside of review meetings?

You can also enquire about the topics clients want to hear more about. What questions do they have about the financial planning process? What subjects would entice them to attend an educational seminar or read a newsletter?

2. Educate your clients
“There is so much information out there,” Levitt says. “Clients need someone to help them sort it out and point them in the right direction.”

The information that can be found online or through other media can be overwhelming, and your clients want to know how that information is applicable to their specific situation. The person they turn to for guidance should be you.

For example, your clients may be unclear about the rules governing tax-free savings accounts, need help in understanding the benefits of investing in equities vs. fixed-income securities.

The ways in which you share this information depends on the size of your client base. You can reach most clients by covering those topics through your blog and newsletters. A seminar is another option. If you want to impress your top clients, phone them personally when there is a change in the market, to show that you are aware of the current conditions and are available to answer any question.

3. Support your clients in adopting your recommendations
Following a financial plan can mean a drastic change in habits for some clients, who might need someone to hold them accountable. This could be a function you can fill.

For example, if you’ve implemented a plan to help a client save for his first home, why not call or email that client and see how he’s doing with his saving? When he acknowledges it was hard to give up his annual travel plans, you can remind him of the timeline on when he will be able to afford his down payment.

If you’re concerned about the amount of time this client communication would require on your part, get your team members involved. You can still show clients you care without doing everything yourself.

Another way to inspire clients to follow through on their goals is to show that you would follow your own advice.

For example, if you have been talking to clients about the importance of life insurance, be ready for their questions about your own insurance plan.