In this episode of The Purpose Focused Advisor, Rob Brown welcomes Whit Lanier, founder of Amplify Reviews, to discuss how financial advisors can leverage client testimonials and endorsements to enhance their marketing strategies. Whit shares insights into the SEC’s updated marketing rule, which now allows compliant use of client reviews. The episode is packed with actionable advice for advisors to build trust, strengthen client relationships, and gain a competitive edge.
Key Takeaways:
- SEC Marketing Rule Explained (02:28) – Whit breaks down the November 2022 SEC guidelines that now permit testimonials and endorsements for advisors, highlighting compliance best practices.
- Overcoming Hesitations (07:51) – Advisors often resist reviews due to regulatory concerns or fear of feedback. Whit explains why this is the perfect opportunity to gain a competitive edge.
- The Power of Reviews (12:45) – Asking for feedback strengthens client relationships and uncovers valuable insights that can improve client service.
- Lessons from Healthcare (15:01) – Whit shares his experience introducing reviews in the healthcare industry and the positive impact it had on doctors’ practices.
- Immediate Benefits of Reviews (25:41) – Reviews improve SEO, increase referral conversions, and position advisors as trusted experts online.
Whit Lanier: “People like working with people they know. A great review bridges that gap.”
Rob Brown: “Asking for feedback isn’t just about reviews—it’s about showing clients you care what they think.”
About Whit Lanier: Whit Lanier is the CEO and co-founder of Amplify Reviews – a platform focused on helping financial advisors embrace online reviews on their own terms. A serial entrepreneur, Whit’s previous start-up was the leading healthcare technology vendor that enabled hospitals to publish verified patient ratings and reviews. That company was acquired at the end of 2014, and by 2021 the platform had processed over 60 million patient reviews for 400 of the country’s largest health systems.
Connect with Whit Lanier:
Website: https://www.amplifyreviews.com/
Email: whit@amplifyreviews.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/whitlanier/
Episode References:
Connect with Rob Brown & Phil Calandra:
Website: http://truestfan.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/truestfan/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@truestfancoaching
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/truestfan