Financial Planning Week 2025

TRecent research from Charles Stanley shows women are still less involved in financial conversations than men. Could this be something to do with how we promote our services as Financial Advisers and who we focus on during conversations with couples? Do we consciously ensure we are truly focused on both partners during these important conversations? 

 

We already know women are massively underrepresented in the Financial Planning sector but that shouldn’t mean that they are not as engaged when dealing with their own finances. Yet, the most recent research would suggest that this is the case. 

Many in our profession will have seen the uproar on LinkedIn recently about an advert produced by an adviser firm, using a photo that wouldn’t have passed the ASA guidelines back in the eighties, let alone now. 

I am saddened such a thoughtless advertising campaign could potentially do damage to our industry’s reputation, especially as much has being done to encourage women to join our ranks over decades. 

I recall the ‘own goal’ by Gerald Ratner’s speech back in the early nineties and how that brought down his business overnight. Tragically, this feels like it may turn out to be a similar PR disaster. 

 

If I take my own home as an example, no major financial decisions are made without full consultation between myself and my wife. However, I’d like to think that is reflected in most modern households today! 

I have certainly seen changes in my own client relationships as the number of female clients I work with has grown noticeably. This is no surprise to me as women increasingly take control of their financial matters and will work with financial advisers independently of their businesses and relationships. 

This week is Financial Planning Week. Organised by the Chartered Institute for Securities and Investments (CISI), it runs from 27th January to 2nd February. It has been set up to help spread awareness of the benefits of financial planning and encourage people to take control of their finances. 

 

So, this week, I am encouraging everyone to take a couple of hours out of their busy week and look at their own situation, where they are at with their savings goals, and what they are doing about planning for their financial future. 

Happy planning!