This week, I had the pleasure of seeing a client I had not seen in some time. They moved to Australia a few years ago, and while I continue to manage their money, we have not really connected in a while.

While at lunch, Mike shared a recent story while visiting with one of his friends back here in the states.

“You should move your money to a bigger firm. Like a bank,” Mike’s friend suggested. “With all the money you have, a bank or a Merrill Lynch would take great care of you.”

Mike then looked at me and said, “Jeremy, I stay with you because I know when I call, I will speak to you or one of your team members, and it will get done.”

Encouraged, I thanked him for his words. He went on.

“Remember when we were buying that house, and we had to have the money in escrow? We were so nervous. But you made a commitment, and you honored it. We got the house. You kept us calm during a very stressful situation for us. You kept in touch. You cared!” Mike said.

Clients, family, friends, and business associates just want to know that you’re there for them – and always will be.

Look, when it comes to finding out who we can trust with our money – or anything in life – bigger is not always better. A more well-known name does not necessarily mean better quality.

“My wife and I are with you because we know you listen. We know you’ll do whatever you can to make sure we succeed, nothing more and nothing less,” Mike shared.

We all have options.

So, we should try to be the only option that truly listens, the option that quiets the noise, the option that is standing there and offering help when no one else is.

I try to live up to what my clients, friends, and family expect of me – and much more.

-J.D.