I attended my first Conference of the Stars as one of the top Financial Planners in Canada back in January 2019. Reflecting on my journey, I never thought I’d end up in finance. I was an art & literature student with dreams of becoming a high school English teacher, but my path led me to a different destination and I spent 16 years in finance. Interestingly enough, my background and experience made me unique, and gave me a competitive edge, particularly as a Financial Planner – helping guide clients through their different life events in a way that’s relevant to them. Like a teacher. 💡

In our quest for top talent, the investment industry’s legacy has inadvertently hindered innovation. The idea of the “best investment advisor” is evolving, breaking free from restrictive standards and cultural expectations on who will be successful based on what they look like, what school they went to, experience they have and who they know. I’m an example of and have seen firsthand the immense value non-traditional backgrounds bring to our field.

Example: investment advisors with psychology backgrounds excel in client rapport and motivation using behavioural and cognitive analysis, lawyers offer deep insights into risk and decision-making, accountants provide holistic financial solutions, and engineers leverage analytical skills for comprehensive advice.

So for leaders seeking diverse, innovative teams that drive performance, consider opening doors to individuals from unconventional backgrounds. Embrace unique perspectives – which sometimes means opposing views across teams and discussions that challenge the status quo.

That’s when innovation happens: when people of different backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives come together, they’re more likely to question assumptions and contribute new solutions.

It’s our job as leaders to create these diverse teams, and learn how to lead them by removing some our own assumptions and biases, encourage transparent and constructive dialogue, and inspire collaboration. Then move out of the way and watch your team flourish as they take on new frontiers together! I promise you, the sky is the limit when we show people how valuable their unique experiences and insights can bring to a successful career!