Hi I’m Tracey, Owner and Senior Adviser at First Advice Solutions. We are an Adelaide based boutique financial planning group, who specialises in helping clients secure their financial future. Being a small group we are able to tailor our services to each client and love nothing more than developing a close relationship with our clients and educating, motivating and giving them strategies to secure their future.
We have 6 staff working together to ensure our clients receive exceptional service and advice. As a team we have received many National Awards, nominated by our peers and clients.
// What do you love most about being in business?
I love my work, my team and my clients. I love the autonomy of working with different clients and providers, and supporting them to identify, manage and meet their goals. I have been able to build a business that I am very proud of, whilst combining it with caring for my 5 children and family.
// What were you doing prior to your business and why did you get started?
In 2000 I was working for another Financial Adviser, and was disgruntled with the ‘sales process’ and inflexibility for both staff and clients. I was offered the opportunity to be mentored in starting my own business, which was pretty scary for a single Mum! But I got started and have never looked back!
// What has been your biggest hurdle?
My biggest hurdle initially was being taken seriously in a very male orientated profession. But I think the combination of strong knowledge, education, empathy and exceptional communication skills, has meant we have built a fantastic business that is now solely reliant on client referral’s.
// Do you have a favourite SA business that you are passionate about supporting
First Advice Solutions is a big supporter of many charities as a team (Cancer Council Morning tea, Cancer Council Pro bono program and Dementia Walk to name a few) I personally find it a very difficult task doing the Pro bono work, but helping a family in dire need of assistance makes me feel proud. I am also a member of the Future 2 SA community – where financial planners fundraise and make 8 x $10,000 grants each year to charities who support disadvantaged or disabled youth.
// What advice would you give other women wanting to start a business?
Do it! It wont be easy, but it will be rewarding. Seek advice from your peers, share your story, and be resilient and open to change. Enjoy and control your future!
Get in touch with Tracey:
Facebook: First Advice Solutions
LinkedIn: Tracey Edwards
Website: www.firstadvice.com.au