Thoughts from advisers - Camilla Tumai
We reached out to some advisers and other experts in the industry for their thoughts and opinions on the job, advice they’d give to people looking to get into the financial services industry, what they’re looking forward to and steps people can take to set themselves on the best financial path at different stages.
Thoughts from Camilla Tumai, NZ General Manager of BizCap
What was the most rewarding part of being an adviser?
For me, the most rewarding part of being an adviser was witnessing firsthand how strategic financial planning can transform lives. Whether it was helping clients protect their financial future through insurance, guiding them toward their first home with KiwiSaver, or showing them how to live their best life in retirement, each experience was a chance to make a real impact. It’s incredibly fulfilling to empower clients with the knowledge and tools they need to achieve their dreams.
If you could give one piece of advice to someone looking to get into the financial services industry, what would it be?
My biggest advice would be to focus on building relationships and trust. Being an adviser is about more than just financial products; it’s about understanding each client’s unique goals and guiding them with empathy and integrity. Take time to educate yourself and your clients—financial knowledge is powerful, and when clients trust that you genuinely have their best interests at heart, you’ll create meaningful, lasting relationships.
What is something you are looking forward to about the industry over the next 10 years?
I'm excited about the growing focus on financial education and accessibility in our industry. With digital tools and resources expanding, more people are gaining access to personalised advice that can support them at any stage of life. I look forward to seeing an industry where everyone, regardless of their financial starting point, has the guidance they need to make empowered decisions for their future.
What steps can people take to set themselves on the best financial path in their 20s, 30s, 40s, 50s, and 60s?
20s: Begin with good habits—set up a budget, start an emergency fund, and begin contributing to retirement savings, even if it’s small. Getting familiar with investing early is invaluable.
30s: This is a time for more focused planning. Grow your investments, increase retirement contributions, and consider insurance to protect yourself and loved ones.
40s: Start building wealth more aggressively while managing debt. Regularly review your financial goals and ensure your retirement plan is progressing as planned.
50s: Focus on accelerating savings and clearing high-interest debt. Take time to review your retirement goals and adjust investments to secure your financial future.
60s: It’s time to transition into wealth preservation. Assess your income sources and create a sustainable withdrawal plan for retirement.
Financial planning is a journey that evolves with every decade, and taking proactive steps at each stage creates the foundation for a secure and fulfilling financial future.
What’s the last book you read?
Atomic Habits by James Clear