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Resilience in finance is often associated with numbers: strong returns, diversified portfolios, and weathering market downturns. But what about the human element? At Amplify, we believe that true resilience lies not only in managing investments, but in scale meaningful connections with clients. 

Understanding the person behind the portfolio 

We recognise that clients are more than numbers on a spreadsheet. They’re individuals with unique experiences, goals, and challenges. By understanding the person behind the portfolio, we can tailor our guidance to their specific needs and build deeper, more trusting relationships. It’s about remembering that behind every investment decision is a person with hopes, dreams, and anxieties. 

This human-centric belief is particularly crucial during times of uncertainty or personal hardship. Whether a client is navigating a divorce, dealing with the loss of a loved one, or facing any other life challenge, we believe in offering support and empathy alongside financial advice. Because sometimes, a listening ear and a compassionate manner can make all the difference. 

Empowering advisers to connect 

We empower our advisers to connect with their clients on a personal level. By providing them with the tools and resources they need to understand the complexities of the human experience, we enable them to offer truly holistic guidance. Yes, it’s about equipping them with financial expertise, but it’s equally equipping them with the human skills needed to build trust and rapport. 

This commitment to the human element extends to our relationships with our partners. We believe in building long-term relationships with boutique asset managers who share our values and commitment to client-centric solutions. These relationships are built on trust, mutual respect, and a shared understanding that our success is intertwined.  We trust them to manage money expertly, and they trust us to handle the distribution side of the business. 

The power and importance of soft skills 

Today, soft skills are more important than ever. Advisers need to be able to communicate effectively, build rapport, and demonstrate empathy. These soft skills, or as we prefer to call them, human skills, are essential for building trust and resilience.  

And why are these “human skills” so important? Because they enable us to connect with our clients on a deeper level, to understand their needs, and to provide them with the support they need to navigate life’s challenges. This deeper connection is what unlocks trust, which is essential for building long-term relationships and achieving financial success. 

The human element of finance 

By recognising the human element in finance, we can build more resilient relationships with our clients and empower them to navigate life’s challenges with confidence. In part 3, we’ll explore the importance of proactive problem-solving in building a resilient financial future. 

More about Nico Janse van Rensburg 

As Amplify’s Head of Retail Distribution, Nico is responsible for building strong client relationships.. With over 16 years of experience spanning investment distribution and wealth management at leading firms, Nico brings a wealth of knowledge to Amplify’s unique approach. He holds a BCom Honours in Investment Management and is a CFP®.