Sales strategies

Missions and money

Empowering your female clients for retirement success

In March 2023, NASA celebrated Women’s History Month by honoring the accomplishments of 72 women who have ventured into space and the 44 who have contributed to the International Space Station. This recognition reminds us of the incredible strides made by women in space exploration. Similarly, in the realm of financial planning, notable women have broken through barriers and demonstrated their prowess. In this article, we’ll look at women’s shared challenges and achievements and discuss your vital role in helping your female clients not only plan for retirement but also helping them navigate all of the financial nuances.

Female astronauts: Challenges and triumphs

Stereotypes shattered: Historically, space exploration was seen as male-dominated, but women astronauts have shattered these stereotypes with groundbreaking achievements. Pioneers like Valentina Tereshkova, the first woman in space, and Sally Ride, the first American woman in space, demonstrated that women can handle the rigors of space travel. Tereshkova’s mission aboard Vostok 6 in 1963 and Ride’s historic flight on the Space Shuttle Challenger in 1983 inspired generations, showing that dreams have no gender.

Belief in self: The confidence gap has been a persistent challenge for women astronauts. Overcoming self-doubt and imposter syndrome, astronauts like Dr. Mae Jemison became the first African-American woman in space. Her remarkable journey aboard the Space Shuttle Endeavour in 1992 stands as a testament to the power of self-confidence and determination. Similarly, Peggy Whitson holds the record for the longest cumulative time spent in space by an American astronaut. Her unwavering self-belief propelled her through multiple missions, including commanding the International Space Station.

Navigating a male-dominated universe: Space exploration’s male-dominated environment presented obstacles, but female astronauts persevered with remarkable accomplishments. Eileen Collins, the first female Space Shuttle pilot and commander, played a pivotal role in advancing space travel. Her leadership and expertise set the stage for future generations of women in space. Christina Koch and Anne McClain ventured into the challenging environment of spacewalks, contributing to critical repairs and demonstrating that gender is no barrier to exploration.

Balancing career and family: Balancing the demands of space missions with family responsibilities has been a universal challenge for women astronauts. Serena Auñón-Chancellor and Nicole Stott have successfully managed both, proving that personal and professional fulfillment can coexist. Auñón-Chancellor contributed to important research aboard the International Space Station, and Stott’s artistic talents were on display when she painted the first watercolor in space. These women have exemplified that dedication to one’s career and family life can lead to remarkable achievements.

Women investors: Challenges and triumphs

Defying finance stereotypes: The finance industry has long been perceived as a male stronghold, but notable women investors have defied these stereotypes. Abigail Johnson, CEO of Fidelity Investments, and Meryl Witmer, a protégé of Warren Buffett, have risen to the top of the financial world, proving that women possess the acumen and resilience required for success.

Confidence in abilities: Female investors have faced the confidence gap like their astronaut counterparts. Women are often portrayed as risk-averse, but individuals like Sallie Krawcheck, former head of global wealth at Bank of America/Merrill Lynch, have shattered these notions. They inspire by exemplifying the confidence necessary for delivering results in the intricate world of finance.

Breaking gender barriers: The financial sector’s gender disparity is undeniable, yet women investors have broken through these barriers. Women like Mellody Hobson, co-CEO of Ariel Investments, have risen to prominent positions, proving that women’s perspectives are invaluable in investment management

Pioneers in financial frontier: Just as female astronauts have courageously ventured into space, women in finance have pioneered new frontiers. Elaine Bedel has grown her investment advisory practice to $1.8 billion in assets under management, earning her a spot in the top 25 women-owned RIAs in the county.

Financial professionals: Empowering your female clients for retirement success

While women have triumphed in various fields, including finance, as a financial professional, you play a crucial role in helping your female clients nearing retirement overcome unique challenges. Women generally outlive their husbands, often by many years, making it essential for you to empower them to face retirement with confidence. Here are several areas where you can help provide your female clients with the confidence and knowledge needed for their retirement success.

Retirement preparedness: Work closely with your female clients to ensure they have a vision and plan for retirement.  In addition to advising on their savings, investments, and income streams, encourage them to set defined goals about what they intend to enjoy in retirement and where they will spend their time. 

Education and knowledge: Many women may be unfamiliar with financial matters and investment terminology, having delegated those duties to their spouses over much of their lifetimes. Provide education and guidance, explaining investment strategies, retirement accounts, annuities, and long-term retirement planning in an accessible way, empowering them to make informed decisions.

Risk management: Address the confidence gap and potential risk aversion in investing. Help your female clients understand the importance of a diversified portfolio, risk management strategies, and the potential for growth, ensuring they are comfortable with their investment choices.

Estate planning: Assist in estate planning, ensuring that your female clients have a clear and comprehensive plan in place for the distribution of assets, minimizing tax implications, and providing for their heirs and loved ones.

Emotional support: Recognize that the transition to retirement can be emotionally challenging. Offer emotional support, addressing fears and concerns while providing reassurance that you are there to guide them every step of the way.

Conclusion: Celebrating triumphs and empowering futures

In Women’s History Month 2023, NASA’s tribute to women in space highlights the achievements of female astronauts who have shown that the sky is not the limit—it’s just the beginning. Simultaneously, as a financial professional, you have a vital role in supporting and empowering your female clients to secure their financial futures and live confidently in retirement.

The common thread between these extraordinary women is their resilience, determination, and belief in themselves. Whether they’re exploring the cosmos or navigating the complexities of retirement planning, women have demonstrated their ability to excel in any field they choose. Your role in empowering your female clients is instrumental in breaking down barriers and inspiring future generations to reach for the stars and achieve financial success in retirement.