KAN creates networking events for mortgage advisers

The Kiwi Advice Network (KAN) has created a space for mortgage advisers to connect and build relationships through a series of social events.

Recognising the isolating nature of the industry, especially for new or geographically isolated advisers, KAN general manager Sarah Johnston said the events aim to provide a fun and relaxed environment for advisers to network.

“I've been in the industry for a long time, and one of the themes you often hear at conferences, PD days, or just in general, is how lonely the business can be,” said Johnston (pictured centre left).

“It was about facilitating a space where people can get together, not to be preached to or sold to, but to have fun and network in a safe environment.”

Adviser Interaction Events: A growing initiative

So far, the networking meetup, called Adviser Interaction Events, has landed in Auckland and Christchurch. However, KAN hopes to expand it across the motu with events planned in Hamilton and Auckland again later this year.

“Kiwis love competition, so we started with a quiz night,” Johnston said. “We provided food, drinks, and a quiz, and let people network.”

The events are open to all advisers, regardless of their affiliation with KAN.

This welcoming approach reflects the core value of fostering a collaborative industry, as evidenced by KAN's Facebook group, "NZ Advisers”.

The group, which already has over 1,000 members, is a forum that promotes “industry discussion and information” amongst advisers, BDMs and other industry partners, according to Johnston.

“It's a place where people can ask questions and support each other. We have members from all different aggregators,” she said. “If you have a question and don't know who to call, you can post it there.

“It's a space where anyone can go. People post about marketing strategies, asking for advice on what works and what doesn't. It's not about pushing anything.”

Bridging generational gaps

The focus on community extends to the networking events as well. Johnston highlighted the value of advisers from different generations learning from each other's experiences.

I’m Gen X and sometimes I sit next to a millennial or one of the new alphas and think, ‘I would never have thought of doing that in my business,’” she said.

“Simple ideas like making a quick video to explain what I do and posting it on TikTok can be really effective.”

On the flipside, a seasoned adviser offering expertise to the younger generations can be invaluable too.

Many New Zealand advisers, for various reasons, may not have a strong network of experienced colleagues to rely on. This could be due to being:

• Young and new to the industry: Those who started their careers during the COVID-19 pandemic may have limited in-person experience and primarily operate online.
• New to the industry: Advisers transitioning from banking may lack connections within the financial advisor community.
• Seasoned brokers who have shifted online: Even experienced advisers who have adapted to a more online approach after COVID-19 may miss the camaraderie of in-person interactions.

These factors can all contribute to feelings of isolation,” said Johnston. “Kiwis love helping other Kiwis. If someone puts their hand up and says I need help, people will drop what they are doing and help them.

But when you're new or when you're in this industry on your own and you haven't had that ability to get out there for a while, you don't know who those people are anymore.”