The wealth management industry is evolving at an extraordinary pace. Technology is reshaping how advisors serve clients, demographics are shifting (more women have more control of wealth than ever before, among other changes), and expectations of both investors and employees are higher than ever.
Against this backdrop, F2 continues to put the spotlight on women in wealthtech through our monthly #womeninwealthtechtowatch social media campaign (consistently one of our most engaged-with posts of the month) and provide places for women to connect and collaborate on career development in this field. It was at one such event recently that we asked the wealthtech veterans attending what they wish they knew 10 years ago and what they wish for the future of our industry.
The responses are so raw, so unfiltered, so valuable, we’re sharing them here in order to help the women thinking about establishing themselves at the crossroads of wealth management and technology. To all the women trailblazers who attended our Women in WealthTech event and so kindly offered their wisdom, thank you for being candid so that others may stand on your shoulders.
Wise Words of Advice
You Don’t Need All of the Answers to Lead.
Leadership is about questions, not answers. The strongest leaders don’t have all the solutions; they ask the right questions, listen deeply, and empower others to bring their best ideas forward.
Hard Work Alone isn’t Enough.
Success requires surrounding yourself with people who believe in you.
Speak Up.
The more you speak up and participate in the conversation, the more you’ll be asked for your input. Don’t be fearful or shy.
Bring Your Patience and Grit.
Building a business, growing a career, or shaping an industry takes longer than you might expect. If you truly believe in where you’re going, don’t quit. Surround yourself with talented people who challenge you and hang in there.
To Grow, You Might Have to Let Go.
Your journey will never be a straight line. Embrace career pivots and leaps into the unknown. Everything from long-tenured roles to graduate school can open doors to unexpected purpose and impact.
Ask for What You Need.
Everyone needs something different, so don’t assume others know what support looks like for you. Ask directly—you may be surprised by how people show up.
Make Networking Your Superpower.
From early mentors to peer groups, staying connected is critical for guidance, advice, and encouragement. Be intentional about staying in touch with early mentors.
Choose Your Own Adventure.
You don’t have to fit into a box that’s already been created for someone else. You can create your own role or design your own career.
Be Your Authentic Self.
Wear flats in the boardrooms, own your confidence, and surround yourself with women who lift you up. Success comes from being fully yourself.
Say Yes, Even When It's Scary.
The opportunities that intimidate us most often lead to the greatest growth.
Balance is a Myth, Presence is Real.
Work-life balance rarely exists in neat symmetry; instead, focus on quality, presence, and grace in the moment.
Don’t Confuse Urgent and Important.
It’s so easy to forget that things that are “important” aren’t always “urgent”.
The Takeaway
Ten years ago, these women wished they had known the power of authenticity, courage, and patience. Today, their hopes for the next decade center on inclusivity, innovation with humanity, and a reimagined purpose for wealth management and most of all, more women bringing their voices to the industry.
Email us to learn how you can get in on the conversation.
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