The Value of a Good Financial Planner – The Human Side of Money Presented by Client Care

by SFT | Feb 4, 2025 | Financial Planning

One of the biggest challenges for a financial planner or advisor is convincing potential clients of the value they bring. Many advisors believe their primary skill is selecting the right product or investment fund, and much of the financial media (often referred to as “financial porn”) reinforces this perception.

However, the greatest value a skilled financial planner offers is not just picking investments—its helping clients build a long-term plan and ensuring they take action to follow it. Without action, even the best advice is worthless.

Of course, this sounds great in theory, but how does it translate into real results? To illustrate, I’d like to share the stories of two couples we’ve worked with over the past 7-8 years. Let’s call them Jack & Jill and John & Jane.

Jack & Jill: The Generous Givers

Jack works as a regional director and shareholder in a national company, overseeing operations in the Eastern Cape. When we first met him, he was earning a great salary—but he was also spending freely. Jack and Jill have a large extended family, and Jack’s generosity often meant he was constantly providing financial help to relatives.

As a result, despite his high income, they were saving very little. At the time, they had around R2.8 million in retirement savings—far below what they needed to retire comfortably.

Through several planning sessions, we helped them understand the importance of financial discipline and how to communicate their financial boundaries to family members. This wasn’t an overnight fix—it took time and guidance—but they made the necessary changes.

The result? Eight years later, their retirement savings have grown to R13 million, and they’ve still enjoyed a great lifestyle. Most importantly, their retirement is now secure.

John & Jane: The Big Spenders

John and Jane, like many couples, are in a second marriage and each has children from previous relationships. Financial dynamics in blended families can be tricky, especially when it comes to spending and saving.

John loved driving the latest cars and made sure Jane had one too. He also had expensive hobbies, and they frequently spent their earnings on luxury items. While their income was strong, they had no clear financial plan.

John is a partner in an engineering firm, and whenever profits were declared, they went toward new toys or helping their children rather than savings. At the time, they had just R2 million in retirement savings—far below what they needed for financial security.

We worked with them to develop a realistic and structured financial plan. This gave them hope and a clear vision of what was possible if they took control of their finances.

Fast-forward seven years, and they now have R22 million saved for retirement, ensuring their financial future and maintaining their lifestyle.

The Bigger Picture

These are, of course, two standout success stories, but we have worked with many individuals who have transformed their financial futures through careful planning.

The key takeaway? Even the most successful business people can benefit from working with a skilled financial planner. A financial planner is not just someone who helps you pick investments—they help you build a secure future, make smart financial choices, and take action to achieve your long-term goals.

If you want to take control of your financial future, the best time to start is now.

Dirk Groeneveld, Certified Financial Planner.