Your clients have trusted you for years — don’t leave them in the dark.
One of the most delicate parts of selling your firm isn’t the negotiation table — it’s the conversation with your clients. How you communicate the change can make the difference between retaining relationships and losing them.
Start with empathy
Clients often see their adviser as more than a service provider. You’ve guided them through personal milestones, market turbulence, and tough life decisions. Respect the relationship by sharing the news in a way that’s personal, timely, and clear.
Communicate in stages
- Plan the message — Work with your buyer to agree what can be shared, and when.
- Tell key clients personally — A phone call or meeting is worth more than an email for (at least) your top-tier relationships.
- Share the bigger announcement — If you don’t have the capacity to call or meet with all of your clients, then send a tailored letter or email to your wider client base, explaining the benefits of the transition.
Reassure and reframe
Explain why the change is happening, what it means for them, and what will not change. Being transparent about the key considerations you had during the selection process can evidence to your clients that they were thought about throughout.
Next Step:
If you’d like a proven exit planning client communication framework, we can help you design one that keeps relationships strong.