Sales & Marketing | 10.29.25

5 Tips for Financial Planning Month and Beyond

by: BISA Staff

Even in stable times, clients look to their advisors for clarity and reassurance. But as financial uncertainty continues to shape decisions about retirement, housing and even family planning, the need for thoughtful guidance is stronger than ever. According to the U.S. Bank 2025 Wealth Survey Report, while most Americans feel capable of managing their day-to-day finances, many still feel less confident about the bigger picture — a reminder that sound planning is as much about mindset as it is about money.

1. Reframe Planning Around Control, Not Perfection

Many clients feel overwhelmed by factors outside their control, such as market swings, inflation or shifting interest rates. Advisors can help by focusing conversations on the choices clients can control, such as saving consistently, managing debt and balancing risk. Positioning planning as a tool for empowerment, rather than a pursuit of perfection, helps clients stay engaged even when uncertainty rises.

2. Bridge the Gap Between Confidence and Concern

Clients may appear financially confident, but still harbor deep concerns about debt, job stability or retirement costs. Regular, empathetic communication — including progress check-ins and financial education — helps bridge that gap. When clients feel heard and informed, their trust in their advisor’s guidance strengthens.

3. Encourage Long-Term Planning Habits

While short-term actions like budgeting or cutting expenses can help clients feel more secure in the moment, sustained progress depends on building habits around long-term planning. Advisors can guide clients toward consistency — contributing regularly to retirement accounts, reviewing plans annually and aligning portfolios with evolving goals. Small, repeatable steps can make big ambitions feel achievable.

4. Revisit Retirement Assumptions

Retirement is evolving. Clients are living longer — redefining what “retired life” looks like — and often balancing care for both older and younger generations. Advisors can help clients adapt by reassessing assumptions around retirement age, spending needs and income strategies. These proactive conversations can not only strengthen planning outcomes but also reinforce the advisor’s value as a lifelong partner.

5. Lead With the Value of Having a Plan

One of the strongest findings from the U.S. Bank survey is that planning builds confidence, making that where advisors make the greatest impact. Clients who have financial plans or professional guidance are far more likely to feel in control and optimistic about their future. Reinforcing that value can deepen client relationships and encourage more people to seek the expertise they need to navigate change with confidence.

Financial services professionals play a vital role in guiding clients through uncertainty — turning insight into action and helping them plan with confidence all year long.