While it's difficult to generalize the preferences of all financial advisors, we have found that some financial advisors prefer engaging in conversations with researchers rather than completing surveys. Here are a few examples why this is the case:
In-depth discussions: Researchers can provide a platform for detailed conversations, allowing financial advisors to express their thoughts, concerns, and ideas more comprehensively. This depth of interaction leads to a richer exchange of information compared to the structured format of a survey.
Personalized insights: Researchers have the ability to ask follow-up questions, probe deeper into specific areas of interest, and adapt their inquiries based on the advisor's responses. This personalized approach often leads to tailored insights that are directly relevant to the advisor's unique circumstances.
Contextual understanding: Researchers often have a broader understanding of the industry, market trends, and regulatory changes. Engaging in conversations with researchers can provide the financial advisor’s broader perspective and deeper insights not captured in a survey.
Relationship-building: Engaging in meaningful conversations with researchers can foster relationships between financial advisors and the companies seeking their insights.
Some advisors may still prefer the anonymity of completing surveys. But, with advisors being bombarded with multiple survey requests, often daily, it’s becoming harder and harder to gain their participation in online research. Surveys are designed to give the firm sponsoring the survey the information they seek in their preferred structure. But, how valuable is that research if they don’t understand the advisor’s perspectives, emotions, opinions and context underlying the responses?