Catching up with Jennifer Alford, one of the 2006 winners of Advisor Today’s Four Under Forty Awards, was not easy, but it was well worth the effort. In a few short years, Alford’s practice has expanded and she is giving more of her time to NAIFA and its Young Advisors Team.

Advisor Today: How has your practice changed since you won the Four Under Forty Award?

Jennifer Alford: When we won the award in 2006, we had four owners and 16 staff members and advisors. Our office now has five owners and an office of 20. My time is now split between working with my personal clients and helping our other advisors with their growing practices. I have also been very fortunate to travel and speak to many YAT groups. My travels for NAIFA have taken me to eight states and have made me many friends.

AT: What else are you working on?

Alford: I also have taken a more active role in NAIFA and am currently the treasurer for NAIFA-Ohio.

AT: Do you have any plans to pursue other areas this year?

Alford: This is the year of my continuing education. I would like to focus on getting a few designations behind my name while continuing to grow my client base. I would also love to find a NAIFA-Hawaii YAT group to go visit. :-)

AT: What advice would you give to advisors who are just beginning their careers?

Alford: I would tell them to focus on the type of financial planner they want to be. This career is much more fun if you truly love your client base.

AT: Would you advise them to join NAIFA?

Alford: Yes. The website resources on the NAIFA website are enough reasons for them to join. The marketing, training and resources are endless if you just take the time to find them.

Nominate a rising star now

If you know a NAIFA member like Jennifer who is making a difference in his or her profession and community, nominate him or her for the Four Under Forty Award today. Click here to download the nomination form (PDF) or find it in the March/April issue of Advisor Today.

Don’t hesitate. Send in your nomination form today–your candidate might be just the one who has what it takes to join the ranks of the Four Under Forty!