PA360: How to deal with challenging client conversations

Disentangling emotion, status and dominance

Jenna Brown
clock • 2 min read

Advisers must “walk their talk” with confidence and congruence in order to deal with challenging client conversations and arrive at the best outcome, delegates heard.

Speaking at PA360 in London today (26 April), Dimensional Fund Advisors head of the UK and Ireland advisor group and a vice president David Jones said heated client conversations can be just as "painful and traumatic" as a physical altercation. He outlined how advisers should approach tough conversations and use logic and reason to bring clients back to the adviser's process. Jones told delegates: "We know that emotion is driving a lot of behaviour. The greed, the fear. We know that this is a massive challenge. "They are being driven by a huge amount of emotion and we are trying to...

To continue reading this article...

Join Professional Adviser for free

  • Unlimited access to real-time news, industry insights and market intelligence
  • Stay ahead of the curve with spotlights on emerging trends and technologies
  • Receive breaking news stories straight to your inbox in the daily newsletters
  • Make smart business decisions with the latest developments in regulation, investing retirement and protection
  • Members-only access to the editor’s weekly Friday commentary
  • Be the first to hear about our events and awards programmes

Join

 

Already a Professional Adviser member?

Login

More on Your profession

Junior minister reiterates no-change stance on APR and BPR proposals

Junior minister reiterates no-change stance on APR and BPR proposals

In response to MP’s ‘devastating consequences’ warning

Sahar Nazir
clock 30 October 2025 • 4 min read
Starmer rules out investigation into Reeves' rental 'mistake'

Starmer rules out investigation into Reeves' rental 'mistake'

Prime minister says probe ‘not necessary’ but pressure on

Jen Frost
clock 30 October 2025 • 2 min read
PA Asks: Is AI a bubble?

PA Asks: Is AI a bubble?

Plus, LLP NICs, EIS and ESG ratings

Professional Adviser
clock 30 October 2025 • 1 min read