Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in financial services but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Alicia Martinez, Founder of Divergent Financial Advisory Services, located in Salem, OR, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
My business is an investment management and financial planning service. My primary clients are women who are business owners. However, if it is a good fit, I can help just about anyone. My ideal clients are eager to learn, ready to better their financial future, and utilize the advice they are provided. My business is LGBTQIA+ friendly.
Tell us about yourself
I have been in the financial industry since 2006, starting in banking. I became investment licensed at the bank in 2012 and then left banking in 2017 to become a Financial Advisor. After working at a few different firms, I ultimately decided it was time to set up my own Registered Independent Adviser (RIA) firm. Setting up my own firm allows me to help my clients unencumbered by giving me the freedom and flexibility to do what is in my client's best interest. Making an impact, whether it is via investment planning, reducing taxable liability, or helping a client reach a lofty goal, keeps me going. I love what I do!
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment as a business owner is going through the hoops of registration. All in all, it took about six months to complete the necessary paperwork for state approval, find and set up all the platforms I needed in order to do my job, and make sure that once the state registration was granted, I could immediately get to work.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
One of the hardest things about being in a solo advisory firm is the isolation. While much of my work is very social and engaging, there is a lot done on the back end that no one sees, and there are some days when I can go almost an entire day without talking to anyone. The other hardest thing is setting up a good "team," such as my compliance attorneys, CPA, etc. It took a lot of research and time to find the people that work best with my business model.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Be resilient. There are going to be days that feel absolutely overwhelming and like it is impossible. Keep going!
- Remember that progress is not a linear line upward. It can go up, down, and all around before you start to see the results you want.
- Know your numbers. Know what your revenue goals are and what it would take to reach those goals. Assess them on a regular basis. Be REALISTIC, especially if you are a start-up business.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://difiadvisory.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DiFiAdvisory
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/difiadvisory/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/difiadvisory/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
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