Money Talks
Five Questions with Joel Bickmore, CFP® of synovus securities, inc.
risk tolerance, and I’m also having more dialogue with our Portfolio Managers, such as Mike Sluder of our FAM Team, Russ Allen of GLOBALT Investments, and Dan Morgan of Synovus Trust. Interestingly, Dan manages over one billion dollars in assets and is regularly featured on CNBC’s Squawk Box and Closing Bell. On a recent call, Dan mentioned he is being very defensive when choosing bonds, and he’s also leaning towards quality dividend payers when choosing stocks. Through our parent company, Synovus Financial, I have direct access to guys like this. Q: What brings you the most joy in your profession?
photo by nick nichols
A: I get to help people be stewards of their finances. For so many people, managing money and making financial decisions is a complicated, scary, or boring topic, and consequentially some people may be more reactive than proactive when managing their finances. I have the practical knowledge to explain how taxes, insurance, budgets, and retirement plans are all intertwined. Helping people get their arms around their finances is very gratifying to me. I also enjoy being part of an impressive team. I regularly get to collaborate with Steve Holt, who I believe is one of the most respected Mortgage Bankers in the area, and David Wilkins, whose experience in multi-generational wealth management and private banking is, in my mind, one of a kind. These guys really make my job fun. Q: What most disappoints you about your profession?
Q: Your business card says you are a CFP® professional within the Private Wealth Management group at the Coastal Bank of Georgia, an affiliate of Synovus Securities, Inc. What exactly does that mean? A: Our team works with clients to grow and preserve wealth. I typically quarterback those relationships and call in our other experts where necessary. My expertise in financial planning helps me to understand my client’s finances as well, if not better, than they do themselves. Some advisors may glaze over the details and run straight to investments, but knowing when to refinance your home or how to properly construct an insurance policy is just as important. In my opinion, if all you get from your financial advisor is investment advice, you may be getting short-changed. Q: Most are aware that the stock market has recently passed its all-time high. What are you doing differently this time? A: I can’t say I am doing anything completely different, because as a CFP® professional, I’m trained to include “what ifs” when developing a plan. But, I am having more detailed conversations about
48
g o l d e n i s le smagazine . c o m
A: When people are misled by insurance agents or financial advisors. I think most people by nature are trusting, and most advisors want to give good advice. The disconnect typically occurs because the advisor does not understand the whole situation, or is simply trying to earn a commission. I dedicate countless hours getting to know my clients on the front end, and this helps me give well documented and thoughtful advice. I know this takes time, but it’s the right thing to do. Q: Why did you choose to work for The Coastal Bank of Georgia? A: In addition to its wide rang of offerings, The Coastal Bank of Georgia is committed to a culture of servant leadership and community service. Some would say that this is one of the most deeply connected and involved banks in the community. I find it’s also a great place to work. I have a heart for the youth in this community which is why I work with the Boys and Girls Club, The Gathering Place, and St. Simons Community Church’s youth. The Coastal Bank of Georgia fosters an environment where I can succeed professionally and where I am encouraged to be involved in the community. It was an easy decision for me.