Tips from Four Advisors on Achieving Your 2026 Goals

As we approach the midpoint of the decade, financial advisors are re-evaluating their strategies and setting ambitious goals for 2026. With the rapid advancements in technology and the evolving needs of clients, it's essential to consider how these professionals are adapting. Here, we delve into the plans of several advisors who are shaping their practices for the coming year.

Technological upgrades and operational efficiency

Jacky Kuk, founder of 1 Degree Planning in Burnaby, B.C., is among those looking to enhance operational efficiency through technology. With a growing following on his financial literacy YouTube channel, Kuk balances running his practice with family commitments. His plan for 2026 includes implementing three major technological upgrades aimed at streamlining operations.

These upgrades underscore a significant trend among financial advisors: the integration of technology to improve client interactions and business processes. Kuk's initiatives highlight the need for a well-functioning system that can handle various tasks seamlessly.

• Client Meeting Automation: Kuk is collaborating with fintech company EdgeFlow to develop a system that automatically uploads client meeting notes to the CRM. This innovation aims to reduce administrative burdens after meetings.
• Revamped Onboarding Processes: Addressing the current manual inefficiencies, Kuk intends to automate contracts and invoices within the onboarding system, allowing for a smoother client experience.
• AI Integration: One of Kuk's most ambitious goals involves exploring encrypted AI systems that analyze years of client communications. This would transform how data is managed and accessed, making it more efficient for decision-making.

Revisiting the fundamentals in client management

Darren Ryan, a senior insurance advisor and certified financial planner with Ryco Financial Inc. in St. John’s, is adopting a back-to-basics approach for 2026. His primary focus is implementing a fully functional client-relationship management (CRM) system. While he humorously acknowledges that this may not seem exciting, the impact of a reliable CRM cannot be understated.

Ryan emphasizes the challenges posed by an unreliable system, which has been a "nightmare" for his team. Staff members are advocating for additional monitors to facilitate better use of the CRM, avoiding the chaos of ad-hoc tracking. Moreover, management bonuses are tied to the successful implementation of this system by the end of the year.

By prioritizing operational efficiency, Ryan aims to enhance client service without compromising on the personalized touch that defines his practice. This approach reflects a growing recognition among advisors that foundational operational tools are critical for long-term success.

The importance of education and mentorship

Justine Zavitz, vice-president and advisor at Zavitz Insurance & Wealth in London, Ont., exemplifies the commitment to continuous learning and mentorship within the industry. While balancing professional obligations and family life, Zavitz is planning to pursue new designations that align with her clients' evolving needs, particularly in estate and trust planning.

As clients amass wealth, their financial situations become increasingly complex. Zavitz aims to better serve this demographic by enhancing her expertise in relevant areas.

Additionally, she is facilitating a transition within her team, shifting some clients to newer advisors in her office. This not only frees her to focus on more challenging cases but also provides junior advisors with invaluable client interaction experience. Zavitz's willingness to mentor her colleagues underscores the significance of knowledge sharing in fostering a supportive practice environment.

Fostering personal connections in advisory roles

For Andy Kovacs, a certified financial planner at Moments of Truth Insurance Services Corp. in Markham, Ont., the emphasis for 2026 is on maintaining personal connections with clients. While he acknowledges the role of technology, particularly AI, in administrative tasks, he believes that the human element remains irreplaceable in financial advising.

Kovacs has shifted his focus to a specific niche: providing services to personal support workers caring for elderly and disabled Canadians. This client base is often overlooked and underinsured, presenting a unique opportunity for Kovacs to make a meaningful impact through his work.

His approach illustrates a broader trend of advisors finding fulfillment in serving traditionally underserved communities. Kovacs's commitment to this niche reflects a shift away from high-net-worth clients, which he found unfulfilling, towards more impactful and rewarding relationships.

Balancing technology with human touch

As the financial services industry continues to evolve, the interplay between technology and the personal touch will define successful practices in the coming years. Financial advisors like Kuk, Ryan, Zavitz, and Kovacs are navigating this landscape by investing in technology while also prioritizing the human connections that underpin their client relationships.

This dual approach not only enhances operational efficiency but also ensures that clients feel valued and understood. As advisors set their sights on 2026, the lesson is clear: combining innovative technologies with a commitment to personal service will be crucial for thriving in this dynamic industry.