Podcast: Play in new window | Download

As we start off 2024, are you looking at changes to make within your team to drive better results this year?

On this week’s episode of the Quantum Growth for Financial Advisors podcast, we talk to Julie Genjac and John Diehl of Hartford Funds to review some key concepts of leading financial services teams by focusing on small actionable changes that can make a meaningful difference.

Julie and John emphasize the importance of making small adjustments that can lead to significant results, such as assigning ownership to tasks within a team and incorporating behavioral assessments into ongoing communication. We also hit on the critical role of communication and leadership in shaping team dynamics, stressing the need for clear task assignment, assessing team talents and workload, and creating a culture of trust where open communication and feedback are encouraged.

Our discussion also touched on the evolving landscape of leadership in wealth management, emphasizing the increasing complexity of teams and the need for advisors to develop leadership skills as their practices grow. Julie and John underscored the challenges faced by successful advisors transitioning into leadership roles and the necessity of finding the right talent to lead their teams effectively. Additionally, we addressed the potential exhaustion and negative impact on the business if the senior leader is not aligned with their strengths, highlighting the importance of self-awareness and strategic decision-making in leadership development.

Listen into this episode to learn:

  • Accountability and Ownership in Team Dynamics
  • Communication and Leadership in Team Dynamics
  • Utilizing Behavioral Assessments for Ongoing Communication
  • The Importance of Common Communication and Understanding Personal Stories
  • Leadership and Team Development in the Wealth Management Industry
  • Defined Roles and Responsibilities in Team Dynamics
  • Team Roles and Growth
  • Accountability and Self-Leadership

Resources:

Connect with Jon Kuttin and Kuttin Consulting Group:

About our Guests:

With over 20 years in the business, Julie Genjac believes financial professionals sit in the most difficult seat. As a Certified Advanced Corporate Coach, she’s passionate about helping financial professionals and teams optimize their practice by enhancing their efficiency and effectiveness. Julie regularly speaks to groups of financial professionals and clients, educating them about emerging trends and opportunities in financial services. She also co-hosts the Hartford Funds Human-centric Investing Podcast, featuring thought leaders from inside and outside the industry. 

When the “Queen of Efficiency” isn’t happily checking items off her to-do list, Julie enjoys boating in the beautiful Pacific Northwest, making home improvements using her many power tools, and spending time with her niece and nephew.

John Diehl has been with The Hartford and Hartford Funds for more than 30 years. He’s a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) and also holds Chartered Life Underwriter (CLU®) and Chartered Financial Consultant (ChFC®) designations. As Senior Vice President of Applied Insights, John leads Hartford Funds’ research efforts with the MIT AgeLab as well as other thought leaders. He oversees a team of industry experts who translate this research into actionable ideas for financial professionals and their clients across the U.S. John’s views on the future of retirement planning have been published in the Wall Street Journal, Financial Planning magazine, and other publications, and he’s been a featured guest on CNBC and Bloomberg Television. John also hosts the Hartford Funds’ newly reimagined Human-centric Investing Podcast.