(No AI was used to write, edit, or research this content.)
Today is one of those rare, amazing, beautiful autumn days without a cloud in the sky. As I type this, the current temperature in Bismarck, ND is 68 degrees. Even more amazing is the complete lack of wind. Anyone from ND understands what a unique blessing days like today are.
The last few weeks have been incredibly busy, with CIMs to draft, financial information to review and update, meetings, phone calls, and most difficult for me - personal marketing. I don’t generally use social media, as I believe it is a net negative for humanity, and a distraction from all the important work I need to complete. That said, I also acknowledge the importance of mass communication and the efficiency achieved when you can target your audience, share your business with the right people, and educate potential clients and team members. My LinkedIn page is nearly blank, Facebook has nothing but happy birthday messages from family and friends, and I don’t use TikTok or any other scrolling platform.
I’ve grown my business through word-of-mouth and referrals. I’m fortunate to have a private and professional network of wonderful people who believe in me, tell others about me, and share what my business does for my clients. This network will always be the foundation of my business, and I maintain it through face-to-face conversations, phone calls, and text messages. Lunch with centers of influence, friends, and clients may be an old-fashioned way of personal marketing, but it’s been incredibly effective. I’ve always felt that I’m at my best when I’m having a conversation one-on-one. It gives me a chance to understand a person. It’s my favorite way to learn, communicate, and share gratitude for the many gifts we’ve been given.
The season is changing, the leaves are falling, and even though the weather is warm this afternoon, the mornings have dropped below freezing. Change is in the air. My friends are out hunting pheasants. As I walked Iris (my dog) in the park near my house, I had an opportunity to reflect on how I do business, what I need to change, and how I need to grow. One of the major changes for me has been the addition of a marketing professional to my team of advisors. He’s been an incredible addition to my team, and he continues to educate me on marketing best practices. While I personally don’t love being in front of a camera, and I despise social media, he has been gently guiding me to a more open outbound communication plan. We will be updating the website, creating content, and utilizing social media to spread the word about Iris Co. My business card, CIM formatting, Teaser development, and branding are all evolving and improving thanks to my new team member.
Autumn is a time of change, and it symbolizes so much of what I strive for in Iris Co. Autumn is a time of harvest. For my clients, there could not be a more apt metaphor. It’s my job to help them harvest the value they’ve created through a lifetime of work. While it is a time of harvest and a time of change, it is not an end. It signals a different phase, and a new position in the cycle of life. It’s a time to reflect, embrace change, and plan for the future.
I’m incredibly grateful for my clients, my friends, and my family. I wish you all the opportunity to take advantage of every day, embrace the season, and experience the joy that each season brings.
-Jake
