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CONVERSATION STARTERS

Resources for better client conversations

Advisors often find that client conversations about market performance, retirement, and other life events are more effective when they have the right resources. Explore our library as you prepare for your next client meeting.

Navigate markets

win more by losing less

Discuss how limiting losses can help maximize investment returns

Explain why limiting portfolio losses during a downturn can have a bigger overall impact across market cycles than capturing returns in a bull market.
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Investing with emotions can be costly

Explain why emotional investing can hurt portfolio performance

Use our chart to help clients overcome their desire to make investment decisions based on emotions rather than convictions.
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asset class returns

Explain the variability of how asset classes perform

Asset class outperformance is unpredictable year-to-year. Show clients how a diversified portfolio can help them seek steady returns and manage risk over the long term.
Download 'Asset class returns' Download 'Asset class returns'
Staying invested for long term

Help clients focus on long-term investment goals

Clients can get sidetracked from long-term investment goals when short-term volatility and large losses occur. Use our chart to remind clients not to panic during downturns.
Download 'Staying invested for the long term' Download 'Staying invested for the long term'
feeling safe may be risky

Show clients how inflation affects investments

Inflation erodes purchasing power and increases the price of goods. Share our chart to remind clients of the impact of inflation when determining how to invest their money.
Download 'Feeling safe may be risky' Download 'Feeling safe may be risky'
There's always a reason to sell stocks

Illustrate the benefits of staying invested through volatility

Historically, the stock market’s worst days have clustered together, followed by a rebound in returns. Encourage clients to stay invested during volatility using our chart.
Download 'There’s always a reason to sell stocks' Download 'There’s always a reason to sell stocks'
Strategies for volatile markets

Share strategies with clients for riding out volatility

Sometimes investors want to sell out during volatile markets. Educate clients on the benefits of 'time in the market' versus 'timing the market' and dollar-cost averaging.
Download 'Strategies for volatile markets' Download 'Strategies for volatile markets'
Diversify your ways to better portfolio

Compare a diversified portfolio to individual stocks

Individual stocks can provide great upside potential, but also great risk. Use our chart to demonstrate how diversification can set up a portfolio for long-term success.
Download 'Diversify your way to a better portfolio' Download 'Diversify your way to a better portfolio'

Plan for income in retirement

Protect against dollar cost ravaging

Help clients manage investment risk in retirement

Educate clients on the importance of downside protection to sustain their lifestyle through retirement.
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Withdrawal rates

Explain the impact of withdrawal rates on investment portfolio value

The amount of money clients withdraw in retirement affects how long their wealth will last. Help clients find the right balance to meet their needs.
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Sequence of returns

Explain why sequence of returns matters during retirement

Our chart helps clients recognize that variability of returns and the sequence of those returns can have a significant impact on portfolio value when withdrawing money.
Download 'Sequence of returns' Download 'Sequence of returns'
Social security retirement benefits

Share key facts about Social Security with clients

Social Security can be complex and knowing the basics and current figures is key. Share this ‘cheat sheet’ to help your clients make a more educated decision.
Download 'Social Security quick reference' Download 'Social Security quick reference'
Medicare for retirees

Help clients navigate Medicare

Clients approaching 65 have important decisions to make about Medicare. Share this 'cheat sheet' with your clients to help them make the best decision possible.
Download 'Medicare quick reference' Download 'Medicare quick reference'
Contribution limits and tax reference

Share this year’s contribution limits and tax rates

If your clients are saving for retirement, looking at gifting opportunities or concerned about taxes, share this 'cheat sheet' to help them make more informed decisions.
Download 'Contribution limits and tax reference' Download 'Contribution limits and tax reference'

Build a financial foundation

Create a good life

Explore what makes a good life

Help your clients lead a life in which they feel fulfilled and connected. Discuss characteristics of flourishing individuals and ideas to make a ‘good life’ even better.
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Assess your cash flow

Help clients understand their cash flow

Do your clients really know where their money goes? Share our worksheet to help them better understand their income and expenses.
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Set goals create wealth

Bring clients’ financial goals into focus

Everyone’s goals are different. Use our worksheet to help identify clients’ goals and establish their financial plan.
Download ‘Set goals. Create wealth.’ Download one-pager
Investment policy worksheet

Align on an investment plan with your clients

Use this worksheet to create an investment policy statement (IPS) with each client. Ensure that their IPS takes their goals, constraints and asset allocation into account.
Download 'Investment policy worksheet' Download one-pager

Help your clients pursue their goals

Explore estate planning strategies

BlackRock has partnered with Vanilla to offer more estate planning education. Explore our estate planning resources.

Charitable remainder trusts

Charitable Remainder Trusts (CRTs)

Uncover how CRTs benefit donors.
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Grantor retained annuity trusts

Grantor Retained Annuity Trusts (GRATs)

See how GRATs help transfer future asset growth.
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Spousal lifetime access trusts

Spousal Lifetime Access Trusts (SLATs)

Learn how SLATs help you transfer wealth tax-efficiently.
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Dynasty trusts

Dynasty Trusts

Explore how dynasty trusts help pass wealth across generations.
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Donor-advised funds

Donor Advised Funds (DAFs)

Discover how DAFs make giving simple and flexible.
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Will vs trust

Will vs. Trust

Understand when to use a will vs. a trust.
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Prepare your estate plan

Estate plan checklist

Ensure clients have the essentials of an estate plan in place.
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Want more ways to engage clients?

Frequently asked questions

  • Conversation starters are client-ready resources designed to help advisors initiate productive discussions with clients on topics such as market performance, retirement income and major life events, making it easier to engage clients in productive financial dialogue.

  • Conversation starters include a mix of visual charts and interactive worksheets. These tools help advisors explain complex financial concepts in a clear, structured, and actionable way.

  • Advisors can use conversation starters to prepare for client meetings and guide specific discussions. Charts help visualize market trends and worksheets turn conversations into actionable plans.

  • Conversation starters help advisors communicate more clearly and consistently. By structuring conversations around client goals and concerns, they build trust, improve engagement and support better long-term financial decision-making.

  • During periods of market volatility, advisors can begin by acknowledging uncertainty and reinforcing on long-term investment goals. Using charts, historical data, and behavioral coaching techniques can help clients stay focused, avoid emotional decisions and remain invested.

  • Advisors can guide these conversations by aligning client income needs with withdrawal strategies, risk tolerance and long-term retirement goals. Framing discussions around life events and retirement income helps clients make more informed, confident financial decisions.