Before joining ReminderMedia, guest blogger Andrew Saska was the head of corporate finance for the largest Tier 3 broker-dealer in the country. Today, he is our vice president of financial services and the best there is at nurturing relationships, connecting people, and closing big deals.

If I learned anything in 2008 and the years shortly afterward, it’s that I’ll never know what looms around the corner. While the markets may be strong right now, and the economy seems to be growing, faith in the financial industry is still volatile. Advisors need to invest in their business and work to build a practice that can weather the next financial storm.

If I was back in the seat and ran my own book again, here are the ten things I would focus on:

1. Thanking my clients repetitively.
2. Building a better client communication strategy that focuses on strong, emotional connections.
3. Using social media to create personal, no-pressure connections.
4. Differentiating my practice and providing clients with a clear message that they know, believe, and repeat.
5. Making sure that my brand message is consistent across all pitch books and marketing materials.
6. Engaging both spouses and their children on a personal level.
7. Working with every A-Book client to develop a customized financial plan.
8. Building relationships with the CPAs and attorneys that work with my top 25 clients by taking five of them to lunch every month.
9. Getting involved in volunteer opportunities that resonate with clients.
10. Planning for several client appreciation events or seminars throughout the year.

After 20 years in the financial industry, my best advice to advisors is to invest in all aspects of your client relationships, and clients will trust you no matter the current market conditions.

Listen to Andrew’s interview on Stay Paid, where he talks about how to win more A-list clients.