The Advisor: You now have both sons working for the family business you built from the ground up. What does that mean to you, as a father and as a businessman?
Ralph Hicks: As a father, and one who loves this line of work, a great gift that I am able to provide my sons with is simply the opportunity, and someday the business. As a businessman, I believe that I am giving my clients the continuity of fine advisors to carry on the business and serve them for 30-40 more years.
TA: In addition to the previous question, what has you most excited about the business?
RH: Our unique ability to do so many extra things other adviosrs or financial professionals cannot do (or are not willing to do). I am excited to offer our clients safety nets under their investements (both green and red), to help them understand ways to maximize their Social Security benefits, and offer them a living financial plan. In addition, I have greatly enjoyed continuing to provide our educational workshops, as well as our fun client appreciation events. Lastly, I love our new office. I believe it has our clients in mind with a beautiful entryway and great meeting rooms.
TA: Do you still find joy in a profession you have been involved in for 45 years?
RH: Simple answer: Yes! We have some of the sweetest and most interesting clients an advisor could ever hope to have. I enjoy continuing relationships that have been established for many years, and building relationships with our new clients. Helping them and taking responsibility (acting as a fiduciary) for them is truly a source of continuing joy for me.