Alongside the 2020 NAPA 401(k) Cyber Summit, we sat down (virtually) with a number of leading advisors for some insights on how they got started, what keeps them going, and what they see for the future of retirement and their practice(s).
A conversation with Jennifer Pearson, Vice President at Clearview Advisory
Jennifer joined Atlanta, Georgia-based Clearview Advisory in 2008. Prior to joining Clearview Advisory, Jennifer held many client-facing roles at Voya (ING), Guardian, and OneAmerica (AUL), contributing to her deep knowledge of vendor processes. 
NN: What led you to become an advisor?
JP: I studied financial management in college with no concrete plan on how to apply it in my work. I’ve always been interested in money and economics, so I knew I wanted to work with money in some capacity. Then, right after college, I answered a newspaper ad for an account management position with a recordkeeper. The rest is history… as in Smithsonian history. It was the late ’90s, so I may have been the last person to get a job from a newspaper ad.
NN: What’s the biggest challenge facing you as an advisor today?
JP: The convergence of healthcare, personal finance, and retirement planning is happening quickly. The opportunities for technology to aggregate this information for individuals is huge, as are the cyber security risks with our financial lives being consolidated online. And yet, the need for advisors to provide clear, understandable guidance (along with a patient ear) has never been greater.
NN: What’s the most important thing you’ve learned this year?
JP: I will not use the word “pivot” here (insert eye roll + grin). Instead, I have asked myself & the team “What does this year make possible?” In 6 short/long months, we have adopted Microsoft Teams, leveraged various 3rd party technology consultants, and transformed our sales process. Our clients have made many tough decisions, and I have been so very grateful for those trusting relationships. We share ideas, send encouragement, and returned to quality phone conversations. In short, I’ve learned that technology can create space to strengthen the relationships that are at the core of our business.
NN: What are you most looking forward to in 2021?
JP: Our team has spent a ton on time and energy this year on our marketing and communications. In 2021, I am excited to see to what extent these efforts scale. “Building a Story Brand” is one of my favorite podcasts. In one episode Donald Miller talks about using a shovel instead of an excavator. The shovel works quickly, and we all know how to use it. But, sometimes it pays to take the time and use an excavator. Once the big machine is up and running, it can cover far more ground than we could collectively cover using shovels.
NN: What’s the best day/experience you’ve had as a retirement plan advisor—and why?
JP: I’m sure this is a common answer among advisors, but after 20+ years in this industry, education days are still the best. I learn so much from conversations with plan participants. Their questions continue to inform us of what we are doing well and just how far we have to go. Saving and investing should be clear and understood by everyone. Conducting education and welcoming feedback gets me (and us) closer to providing meaningful financial education.
