As financial planners, we support our clients in many ways. New clients often come to us expecting technical support and expertise regarding their pensions or investments. While we do provide this kind of help, the benefits of financial planning extend further.
There are several important soft skills we employ when delivering holistic financial planning support, and these are often just as valuable, if not more so, than the technical side of things.
Here are three crucial soft skills that we offer to our clients.
1. Providing valuable reassurance
Finances are a common source of stress for many of us, particularly during times of economic turmoil when markets are unpredictable or living costs are rising.
According to a 2025 survey by Nottingham Building Society, 72% of UK adults said they were losing sleep due to money worries.
One of the key benefits of working with a financial planner is that we provide valuable reassurance.
For example, if you are concerned about your overall position, we can use cashflow planning to create forecasts of what your pensions, savings, and investments might look like in the future. These insights are so valuable because you can see in clear terms that you are on track to meet all your important ambitions in life.
We can even model various scenarios, such as losing your job or having to pay for later-life care, to stress-test your financial plan. This gives you peace of mind knowing that you are prepared for whatever life throws at you.
More importantly, if there is likely to be a shortfall in your savings or you are not adequately prepared for surprise expenses, we can discuss ways to build wealth and plug those gaps in your finances.
Additionally, when global events affect the value of your investment portfolio, you might feel apprehensive. In these instances, we can review your portfolio and revisit your targets to reassure you that your long-term financial plan is still on track, even if markets dip temporarily.
The reassurance we offer, whether about specific problems or your overall plan, could make you feel more confident about your finances and avoid unnecessary stress about money.
That is why research from Aviva found that 80% of people who received financial advice said it contributed to their overall wellbeing.
2. Explaining complex financial terms in simple language
The world of finance can be daunting because there is a lot of jargon. Trying to make sense of different investments or your pensions could be overwhelming when you do not understand half of what you are reading, and you would not be alone.
In their most recent Financial Lives Survey, the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) found that 36% of people reported having low financial knowledge.
Often, this can be a barrier that stops people from taking control of their finances.
For example, if you are unable to navigate the complex world of investing, you might decide to put your wealth in a savings account instead. While this might be simpler, it could also mean you struggle to generate the long-term growth you need to achieve your desired retirement.
Similarly, you might not understand how much you are contributing to your pension or what your investment options are, so you may decide to leave it as it is. However, this could mean you miss valuable opportunities to build your retirement savings.
Fortunately, financial planners are skilled at explaining complex financial terms and concepts in simple language.
This means that we can lay out all your available options in a way that you can understand, empowering you to make informed decisions about your future.
3. Active listening and empathy
Whenever you experience a life milestone, you may need to review your financial plan. Many of these events are happy occasions, such as having children or grandchildren, getting a new job, or deciding to retire.
However, there are instances when financial planning intersects with challenging life events such as bereavement or divorce.
At these times, you may face financial pressures, and it is important to manage your wealth carefully to avoid additional stress.
We understand that it may be difficult for you to focus on your finances when you are experiencing emotional turmoil. That is why we practise active listening and empathy, so we can understand how best to support you at this time.
By demonstrating patience and understanding and helping you manage the financial side of things, we can support you through difficult life events.
Get in touch
If you want to benefit from the soft skills of an experienced financial planner, then please do get in touch with us at DBL Asset Management.
Email enquiries@dbl-am.com or call 01625 529 499 to speak to us today.
Please note
This article is for general information only and does not constitute advice. The information is aimed at individuals only.
All information is correct at the time of writing and is subject to change in the future.
The Financial Conduct Authority does not regulate cashflow planning.
A pension is a long-term investment not normally accessible until 55 (57 from April 2028). The fund value may fluctuate and can go down, which would have an impact on the level of pension benefits available. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance.
The tax implications of pension withdrawals will be based on your individual circumstances. Thresholds, percentage rates, and tax legislation may change in subsequent Finance Acts.