The mind of a capitalist and the heart of a social worker. That’s probably not a phrase you hear often, but when a recruiter used this description to explain why the financial services industry was right for me, it changed my life. Those values make up the core of my philosophy as an advisor and they drive every decision I make for my clients.
The Beginning
As often happens, a chance encounter after I graduated college catapulted me on this career journey. A recruiter from a financial services firm believed I would be an ideal financial advisor and interviewed me for the position. She gave me an assessment to determine if I had what it took to be a financial advisor, and, according to her, I ranked high on this test.
Even then, I was skeptical about the industry and what it meant to be a financial advisor. I’d heard stories of “advisors” who were focused solely on lining their own pockets, not fulfilling the best interest of their clients, and that didn’t sit well with me. It was only when the recruiter told me I had the mind of a capitalist and the heart of a social worker that my whole perspective of the finance industry changed. I realized that it didn’t have to be a hard-hitting, product-selling career, but one where I could come alongside people and guide them as they navigate their financial lives.
So, I took the plunge and became an advisor in 1997. I spent the next decade working as an advisor and manager at A.G. Edwards & Sons, Inc., and the following nine years at RBC Wealth Management. In 2007, I earned my Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) Certification to further develop my ability to help my clients achieve their financial goals. While this time of my career provided amazing opportunities to obtain valuable experience and hone my skills, I knew was ready for something more.
Branching Out
In 2016, I took a leap of faith and founded Salish Wealth Management, an independent wealth management firm in Bellingham, WA. My goal with this endeavor is to provide high-touch services and a trusted relationship. A place where clients can rest assured knowing we will always put their needs first and help them protect and preserve their wealth while following the right financial path for their unique life.
The firm is founded on the principles of prudent investing, timely advice, and, most importantly, a unique and personal relationship with our clients, our partners in success. We want to approach the management of our client’s wealth from the perspective that we are in this together as our partnership develops and grows. We have the minds of capitalists and the hearts of social workers.
Hurdles and Victories
I do my best to put my clients in the best position to be financially prepared for anything but there is so much more to life than finances. Since my business is such a personal one and my firm is made up of a close-knit group of loyal clients, the most difficult part of my job is when a client’s health deteriorates. I develop close personal relationships with my clients and when they pass or develop a cognitive disability, such as Alzheimer’s or dementia, it’s like losing a best friend.
Despite the heartbreak when this happens, I wouldn’t choose any other career. It’s incredibly fulfilling to watch my clients achieve their goals, especially when they can leave a legacy for their loved ones. I love working with clients to set up their finances so that they can help their children purchase homes, or donate to charities, or live out their dreams. It’s not about saving money for money’s sake. It’s about the peace of mind that financial security can provide to my client’s and their families.
I work hard every day to not only provide for my family but also offer the highest level of integrity and service to my clients. If we do the right things, the benefits will follow.
Next Steps
I am always open to meet new people and see how I may be able to help. Whether you’ve already started planning for the future or have yet to put strategies in place, I encourage you to reach out to us today for a free 30-minute portfolio review. Give us a call at (360) 671-5900 or e-mail us at admin@salishwm.com.
About Scott CFP®
Scott Hume is the founder of Salish Wealth Management and a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ with more than two decades of experience. Prior to forming his firm, he managed two local financial firms. Today, he works with affluent individuals, families, and local businesses to help them plan and execute their financial goals, providing comprehensive financial planning and cross-border investment management. In his free time, Scott likes to spend time with his wife, Darlene, and children, Claire, Curtis, and Corbin, on their hobby farm raising lambs, chickens, and pigs or visiting his grown daughter, Chelsey, in Eastern Washington. He is an active member of The Rotary Club of Bellingham, Bellingham Chamber of Commerce, and The Estate Planning Council. In addition, he is very involved in the local aviation community and is an active member with Cornwall Church, volunteering his time to financial counseling and serving on mission trips in South America. Learn more about Scott by connecting with him on LinkedIn.