Robin Bates
	A True Advisor… In His Own Words

Robin Bates needs very little introduction. He’s a man of his word and an advisor to be emulated; he is everything that a financial advisor should aspire to become. In most cases, we write the articles on the Super Star Advisors, but this month we are going to do something a bit different. With such an eloquent response to the questions I asked, this time I am simply going to post the questions I asked Mr. Bates and his responses. I think you will find this slight waver in tradition not only refreshing but inspiring as well.

Why are you in the senior market?

"I can’t imagine any job more important or an industry more in need of true leadership than ours. We have the ability to change our clients’ lives for the better and some of us do every day. Unfortunately, our industry is filled with all types of characters and because of that, and their less than exemplary behavior, we have an uphill battle convincing the vast majority of people of our true value. As I’m disabled and an immigrant, I have a unique perspective on our industry and the need to offer individualized solutions to all who truly want them. After a while in this business, you realize you can’t help everyone. So you start focusing on people who want your help and advice. It just so happens that those looking for advice and guidance are the ones who have the most money to lose, namely the seniors."

How did you get into this business?

"In 2000, I was diagnosed with MS. I had just got married to my lovely wife Paula and because of some not-too-clever moves, found myself broke and unemployed in a foreign country. Now I’d like to tell you how I overcame these obstacles myself and became successful on my own, but that’s not true. I had help, lots of help. You see, in those dark days when I was consumed with anger, I was saved and my life has gotten better every day, despite my debilitating disease. So I got into this business trying to find a solution for myself and my situation, but discovered a massive need to offer comprehensive, unbiased financial advice to American retirees and pre-retirees."

What is your business philosophy?

"It’s all about the clients. There’s the old saying that the client is always right. Well, in this case you better believe it. As a trusted advisor, it is my duty to find out all and everything I can about them, so I can make an unbiased, personalized group of recommendations. Now in saying that, let me explain that “stuff happens” and things change. Another part of our job is to meet constantly with our clients and hopefully stay one step ahead of all and any future problems, or at least be aware of them as soon as possible. My philosophy is to help people who want my help and are prepared to follow that advice once they get it."

Why did you pick CRP over other FMOs?

"You know how sometimes you buy a pair of gloves and they fit perfectly? It’s almost like they were made just for you. Well, without meaning to sound corny, CRP fits me perfectly. Besides this obvious reason, I have found everyone, from Diane at reception to Aryn with her back office magic, to be the salt of the earth. And when it comes to the VPs, Joe, Marj, Kevin and Mr. Big (Matt) himself, I have been honored to experience the true SUPERSTARS in this business. To everyone else not mentioned, thank you, thank you, thank you, and especially Mr. Langdon: Greg, you rock. Thank you for inviting me onto your team."

What advice would you give to someone getting into this business today?

"Sell the need and not the product. Always do what’s right for the client. Don’t take rejection personally; remember they are saying no to your ideas and not you. This business is a numbers game, so never stop prospecting. Keep away from negative people and have fun. You truly are working in the greatest profession around."

Who was your biggest inspiration and motivation in your success?

"Every day I wake up and thank the Lord for blessing me with another day to hopefully make a difference in someone’s life. Besides this obvious choice, I must admit it is the clients who are working their plans diligently every day; they are the true inspiration to why I do what I do."