What it’s like to work at Acumen

A happy workforce is a productive workforce, as they say, and at Acumen we like to truly live by that principle. We firmly believe that the happier our employees are the happier our clients will ultimately be. In this article, we explore the reasons behind why Acumen’s happy workforce is more productive than average and hear from individual team members about what keeps them motivated

A happy workforce is a productive workforce

Happy employees have been found to be 20 per cent more productive than their unhappier peers, according to a study by independent public policy think-tank, the Social Market Foundation. Despite this somewhat logical finding, not all companies are taking heed. A 2017 survey by According Investors in People revealed that – shockingly – one in four employees felt unhappy at work.

The happiness of our valued workforce is a no-brainer for us at Acumen. At the point of inception, it was always our aim to create what Managing Director, Angela Maher, describes as a “grown up” firm. A place where clients would be greeted warmly by advisers who “wanted to be there and had some control over their own lives.”

We truly believe that happy employees are motivated employees. The happier they are in their place of work, the more motivated they are to deliver the high standards of financial advice that we strive to deliver and, in turn, the happier our clients will be. It is a cyclical, self-perpetuating approach that we value greatly and, as you will see from the demeanour of our staff and the quality of their interactions with you – it is an approach they hold in just as high esteem.

Working as a financial adviser at Acumen

Speak to any member of the Acumen team and you will hear a common theme of contentment emerge. Which, incidentally, is exactly what we did! It is one thing hearing anecdotal reports that staff are happy in their work but quite another to hear it directly from them. This is what the Acumen team had to say about the quality of their working environment.

Two crucial values that we hold dearly here at Acumen are delivering an attentive, individualised service to our clients and supporting each other in the pursuit of excellent client service. Working as a financial adviser at Acumen, Phil Jones, certainly enjoys the environment this fosters. “Working with such a dedicated and supportive team means that I am able to offer the kind of service I have always aimed to provide,” says Phil.

Phil’s sentiments are echoed by fellow IFA, Jenny Jones, who credits the backing of her colleagues and the firm’s integrity as major factors in the development of her enduring client relationships. “The invaluable support provided by the team enabled me to maintain the long-standing client relationships I have built over many years, as well as building new ones,” says Jenny.

Flexibility and continuing professional development

Acumen’s highly skilled team clearly relish delivering a first-class service to our clients. An attitude that is widely shared and encouraged by all. “The best part of my job is working with my clients to identify their goals and to put plans in place to best achieve them,” says IFA, Alex Dunk. “Being surrounded by such an enthusiastic and experienced team has made each day a pleasure to come into work and I certainly look forward to continuing for many years to come with Acumen.”

Acumen values all our staff immensely, from the most experienced advisers to the newest starters. Everyone is important in our eyes, which means they receive an equal share of work-life flexibility and continuing professional development. A fact not lost on Trainee Financial Planning Co-ordinator, Lucy Molina. “Acumen is committed to ensuring the new starters learn as much as possible to help them move up within the team,” says Lucy.

“This covers everything from allowing for study leave, to experienced advisers within the team assisting me with my studies. I am excited to see where this new career in finance can take me as I am enjoying my role and am keen to progress,” she adds.

As you can see, by far our greatest asset at Acumen is our happy workforce. We’d love for you to experience their passion and enthusiasm in person. If you’re looking for a firm of financial advisers that puts the needs of their clients and personnel first, then why not book an appointment at our Burscough offices in the stunning Lancashire countryside.

We’re confident that you’ll leave just as happy as our team!

For more information about Acumen or any of our services and products, please call 0151 520 4353, email info@acumenfinancial.co.uk or visit www.acumenfinancial.co.uk.