Estate planning is a practice area that requires strong interpersonal skills, careful attention to detail, and intentional planning. Women who succeed in this industry often develop habits that set them apart as trusted advisors and thought leaders. Whether you are just starting in this practice area or are looking to elevate your practice, cultivating these habits can make a significant difference in your success and job satisfaction. Here are five habits of highly successful women in estate planning:
1. Continuous Education and Learning
The estate planning field is constantly evolving due to changes in the law, tax regulations, and client needs. Successful women in this field prioritize ongoing education by attending industry conferences, taking continuing education or certification courses, and staying updated on legal developments. They also seek mentorship and networking opportunities to enhance their expertise.
Practical Ideas
- Subscribe to estate planning journals and legal blogs.
- Attend workshops and watch webinars to stay ahead of legal developments and industry trends.
- Join professional organizations such as the National Association of Estate Planners & Councils (NAEPC) or the American Bar Association (ABA).
- Obtain a professional certification such as the Accredited Estate Planner (AEPS).
2. Effective Time Management
Managing multiple clients, legal documents, and administrative tasks requires strong time management skills. Successful women in estate planning protect their time and peace by using organizational tools, delegating tasks where appropriate, and setting clear priorities to meet client expectations while maintaining balance and avoiding burnout.
Practical Ideas
- Utilize technological tools such as case management software and automated scheduling systems.
- Set daily priorities and use time blocking techniques to set aside dedicated time for client meetings, casework, continuing education, client development, and administrative duties (e.g., improving processes and procedures, hiring and training staff).
- Delegate tasks to a support team so you can focus on high-value activities. Consider leveraging virtual assistants or contract workers as a cost-effective way to increase support and efficiency.
3. Strong Client Communication
Estate planning is a deeply personal process that requires trust and transparency. Successful women in the field excel in their ability to communicate complex legal and financial concepts in an understandable way. They build strong relationships with their clients by actively listening, empathizing with their concerns, and customizing solutions to their unique needs. They also set clear expectations for clients about the estate planning process to ease their concerns and foster a sense of trust and confidence.
Practical Ideas
- Use simple, easy-to-understand language when discussing estate planning with clients.
- Use empathy to guide discussions with clients about ensuring their wishes are honored and their loved ones are protected. This approach can help ease anxiety when addressing sensitive topics such as death, incapacity, remarriage after a spouse’s passing, and guardianship of minor children.
- Develop a clear, step-by-step guide to make the estate planning process easier for clients to understand. Include a visual representation to help illustrate each stage, clarify the roles of both the client and attorney, and set realistic expectations with an estimated timeline.
4. Proactive Problem-Solving
Great estate planners anticipate potential issues and find solutions before they become problems. Whether minimizing tax liability, preventing family disputes, or protecting assets, successful women in estate planning take a forward-thinking approach to their work.
Practical Ideas
- Conduct thorough client intake and consultations to identify potential risks.
- Collaborate with financial planners, tax professionals, and attorneys for a holistic, team-based approach.
- Educate clients about potential complications and offer solutions in advance.
- For those who do not practice probate and trust administration or probate litigation, talk to an attorney who specializes in these areas to gain invaluable insights into what problems may arise after a client passes away. Their firsthand experience can help create stronger estate plans by identifying and addressing potential challenges.
5. Well-Developed Professional and Community Relationships
Success in estate planning is not just about legal knowledge but also about connections and community. Successful women cultivate strong professional networks, collaborating with attorneys, financial advisors, insurance professionals, and other experts to provide comprehensive services to their clients. They also become actively involved in their community to build meaningful relationships and demonstrate their commitment to those they serve.
Practical Ideas
- Attend industry networking events to stay current on relevant developments and build valuable connections.
- Partner with professionals in complementary fields to offer clients a well-rounded approach.
- Stay engaged on professional platforms such as LinkedIn to exchange knowledge and opportunities.
- Engage with organizations that align with personal interests—charities, small business associations, local school organizations, or cultural groups—to help foster trust, strengthen relationships, and build credibility within the community.
Conclusion
Developing these five habits can position women in estate planning as leaders in their field. By committing to continuous learning, managing time effectively, fostering client trust, staying proactive, and expanding their networks, they can build successful careers while impacting their clients’ lives.
