Support for ‘Old School’ Soft Skills

Opinion is divided in our latest poll considering the validity or relevance of some of the ‘old school’ life insurance sales techniques in today’s consumer world – with the interim outcome just favouring the ‘old school’ approach.

As we go to press, just over half (52%) of those voting in this poll disagree with the proposition that historic sales techniques are far less effective when engaging with today’s consumer. 36% agree with the proposition, while a reasonably large proportion (12%) remain on the fence.

We’ve received some excellent comments:

Old school still offers tremendous value for advisers and clients alike. Shame the newbies won’t have anyone left to personally teach and coach them through these career building talents…

…And this from highly respected life insurance advice adviser and mentor, Godfrey Phillips:

“If one doesn’t ask the right questions, one will never get the right answers!”
Many of us have been mentored and taught by the best of the best in our great business, and have continued to pass on this legacy to the younger financial advisers. This will continue as the ethos of sharing and caring in our business continues.

These reflections support the contention that ‘old school’ retains its relevance and value, and just over half of those voting agree. Is this you? Or do you support Tony Vidler’s viewpoint that some things in today’s consumer world have changed (see: Old School Sales Techniques Less Effective).

Our poll remains open for another week and we welcome your thoughts, as always…