The INN8 Journey: Can you share a bit about your journey at INN8? How did you start, and what has been the most exciting part of your experience so far? 

I started off in the servicing team as a key account manager (KAM) in the tied team in September 2022. This was a completely new industry to me but I was determined to learn and excel. About six months into my role, a role in the IFA distribution team opened up and a leaped at the opportunity.

The most exciting thing for me has been engaging with advisers daily. They have years of experience in the industry, so with every engagement you learn more and more – which is what I love about the industry: you can never know everything. You have to keep learning to stay on top of your game.                                 

Day in the Life: What does a typical day look like for you as an SIC at INN8? Any interesting or challenging moments that stand out? 

No two days are the same so I couldn’t say what a typical day is like. I spend a lot if time meeting with advisers and a lot of the time on the phone, so I do A LOT of talking. The most challenging or interesting thing about this role for me is engaging with all the different personalities in the industry. You honestly never know what you are going to get on the day so you just have to dive in.

Key Learnings: In your role, what are the key skills or insights you’ve gained that have been crucial for success in business development at INN8? 

Telling stories. Everyone loves a good story. They bring people together and forge a bond. That’s what this role is about: Building a relationship with people in and outside of INN8. 

Favourite Project: Could you share a client interaction that you found particularly rewarding or memorable? What made it stand out? 

I have this one adviser who is more of a friend now. A slightly older gentleman – okay maybe a lot older than I am – but from the moment we first met we just clicked. I wouldn’t say it is one single interaction that stands out but the journey we have walked together with INN8 has been one for the books. 

He knows I have his back and I know he has mine. 

Client Connections: Building relationships with clients is a crucial aspect of business development. Can you share a story about a client interaction that taught you something valuable or left a lasting impression?

This is an interaction that occurs quite often: someone will ask for something that can’t be done. In this moment you just have to be honest and say that it can’t be done. Advisers and their teams appreciate the honesty. I’ve found that trying to do the impossible often wastes a lot of time and that’s one thing my clients hate so I rather save them and myself time and be open and honest. 

Challenges and Solutions: Every role comes with its challenges. What’s a challenge you’ve faced as a BDM, and how did you overcome it? Any lessons learned? 

At times clients ask for information that you aren’t quite sure of in that moment. It’s always best to be honest and let them know that you will confirm this for them. You’re accountable to your advisers so its always best to make sure to give them accurate information instead of talking yourself into a problem that could be avoided. 

Personal Growth: In your time at INN8, how have you personally grown, either professionally or personally? Are there any experiences that have shaped you? 

Its been quite a journey at INN8. I came into the industry as a blank canvas. There isn’t a day where I’m not learning, whether its from my colleagues, my advisers, or competitors.

One thing that has had the biggest impact on me is attending meetings with my colleagues. I think its important to see different approaches in all aspects in this industry. 

Advice for Future BDMs: If you could go back and give advice to yourself when you started as a BDM at INN8, what would it be? What advice do you have for someone aspiring to join the INN8 family? 

LISTEN. It’s an extremely important skill that will take you further than just running your mouth. Whether it’s listening to your advisers or your colleagues, you’ll never know when that piece of information may help. It could be the difference between a major win or a major loss so always listen and ask questions based on what has been said.