How to change up the tune of pension messaging

Johanna Nelson breaks down switching the ‘R.E.M’ status quo

clock • 3 min read

Johanna Nelson sets out five ways to improve pension messaging and bring it into the real world...

Imagine retirement and the vision of a stock-picture-perfect grey-haired, blue-eyed couple strolling along the seashore washes into your brain. I don't know about you but the retired folk I know generally do not look like the professional models in thousands of photographs companies use to illustrate their retirement services. And the theme tune to accompany their idealised coastal ambling? ‘Shiny Happy People' by American rock band R.E.M would be the obvious choice but not the right one. It has always been a struggle to convince people to be more interested in how to pay for tomor...

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 Pensions

 Rachel Vahey: Advisers and clients still need clarity on NMPA increase

Rachel Vahey: Advisers and clients still need clarity on NMPA increase

'HMRC has had years to clear this up but has sat on its hands'

Rachel Vahey
clock 11 March 2026 • 4 min read
Pension freedoms exposed a longevity problem we still refuse to confront

Pension freedoms exposed a longevity problem we still refuse to confront

'The gap between product complexity and consumer understanding is not narrowing'

Julia Fintz
clock 11 March 2026 • 4 min read
Complex Hartley Pensions administration continues amid 'misappropriated funds' investigation

Complex Hartley Pensions administration continues amid 'misappropriated funds' investigation

Administration expected to conclude in 2027

Isabel Baxter
clock 10 March 2026 • 3 min read