DAC Delegate in the News: Michelle Crouse, Wealth Advisor

Michelle Crouse, Wealth Advisor and regular attendee of the Distinguished Advisor Conference (DAC) shares some of the highlights and provides insight on how learning from the DAC speakers has helped her in her practice.

What is your area of practice or financial services specialty?

I am a Wealth Advisor at BMO Nesbitt Burns. My team provides a comprehensive approach to Wealth Management. A personalized financial plan is at the heart of what we do for our clients.

How many years have you attended the Distinguished Advisor Conference (DAC)?

I attended my first DAC in 2010 in Orlando Florida, and have attended all but 2 conferences since. I’m looking forward to attending DAC 2019.

What sets DAC apart from other conferences offered in Canada to tax and financial services professionals?

For me, DAC is an opportunity to hear a variety of professional voices from outside my BMO world. The agenda topics are always well-timed and relevant.

What was the most surprising or compelling thing you learned from a speaker at DAC?

I’ve really enjoyed the non-financial speakers – world-class athletes; former Navy Seal – whose personal stories are inspiring and speak to the character traits that lead to success. Jeffery Simpson, the morning after the 2016 US election, delivered an impressive speech about US / Canada relations & trade agreements and the risks ahead with almost no prep time.

What have been your top takeaways from the DAC sessions that you’ve applied in your business practice?

The importance of continuous professional development; the ever-changing environment in which we practice and the urgent need to constantly evolve our practices to be relevant and profitable.

How did you find the sessions that don’t specifically pertain to your area of practice enhance your knowledge?

It’s easy to fall into the trap of looking at things from one perspective. I’ve enjoyed the sessions that don’t necessarily pertain to my work directly in that it’s an opportunity to gain insight into other practice models, the challenges faced by those in independent practices, smaller firms, etc.

Would you say that DAC provided you with more technical knowledge, economic insight, or advice to help your holistic advice practice?

DAC has given me all of the above but most importantly views and insights from professionals outside my firm. I have appreciated the diversity of subject matter and speakers.

What would you say about the quality and engagement of the speakers, when recommending DAC to a colleague?

DAC has showcased subject matter experts with excellent speaking skills.

Has attending DAC inspired you to pursue other educational options with Knowledge Bureau (if you haven’t already)? For example, online studies, or enrollment in CE Summit Workshops.

Knowledge Bureau offers a wide array of educational options and resources. I’ve taken one on-line course and would highly recommend KB for professional development.

Additional educational resources: Register for next year’s Distinguished Advisor Conference , and if you’re feeling inspired to enhance your leadership skills before then, check out Knowledge Bureau’s MFA – Executive Business Growth Specialist Program !

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