Financial advisers have a unique opportunity to engage with pre-retirees by broadening discussions beyond wealth management to focus on the wider aspects of a fulfilling retirement. 

Craig Keary, CEO of Selfwealth, is passionate about the value of financial advice and has seen and heard many inspiring stories from our advisers and their clients about how quality advice has improved wellbeing. Below he shares a few different approaches financial advisers can consider adopting in their work with pre-retiree clients. 

Here are some of these approaches: 

1. Shift the conversation from finances to lifestyle goals 

Rather than focusing solely on superannuation balances or investment strategies, advisers can start conversations with broader lifestyle questions: 

• What does an ideal retirement look like for you? 

• How do you want to spend your time? 

• Where do you see yourself living? 

• What are your biggest concerns about retirement? 

Leading with lifestyle aspirations rather than numbers helps advisers position themselves as partners in life planning, not just financial management. This approach encourages pre-retirees to think holistically about their future and creates a more engaged discussion around their financial plan. 

2. Addressing the emotional transition of retirement 

Many pre-retirees are financially prepared but struggle with the emotional transition away from full-time work. Advisers can provide valuable support by discussing: 

• Identity and purpose – How will they maintain a sense of structure and achievement without work? 

• Social connections – Do they have strong networks outside of the workplace? How will they stay socially engaged? 

• Mental stimulation – What hobbies, learning opportunities or activities will keep them mentally active and fulfilled? 

I have heard first-hand how advisers help clients navigate these challenges, ensuring they not only have financial security but also the confidence to embrace retirement with purpose and clarity. 

3. Encouraging flexible retirement planning 

Retirement is no longer a one-size-fits-all transition. Many Australians are choosing phased retirement, part-time work or entrepreneurial ventures instead of stopping work entirely.

Advisers can engage clients by discussing: 

• Gradual retirement options instead of an abrupt transition 

• The financial and psychological benefits of staying engaged in work or community activities 

• How their financial plan can adapt to changing goals over time 

By incorporating flexibility into retirement plans, advisers help clients feel more in control of their future and better prepared for change. 

4. Introducing wellbeing-focused financial strategies 

Financial security underpins wellbeing, but how money is used in retirement is just as important.

Advisers can introduce: 

• Bucket strategies to ensure financial confidence and spending freedom 

• Longevity planning to safeguard against outliving savings 

• Health and aged care considerations, ensuring clients have the right financial strategies in place to support future healthcare needs 

These discussions reinforce that financial advice is not just about accumulating wealth – it’s about sustaining wellbeing throughout retirement. 

5. Hosting wellbeing-focused events for pre-retirees 

Advisers can further engage pre-retirees by offering: 

• Retirement planning workshops covering both financial and lifestyle considerations 

• Guest speaker sessions on topics such as mental wellbeing, travel, volunteering or staying active in retirement 

• Networking events, helping pre-retirees connect with others in a similar life stage 

These initiatives position advisers as holistic retirement guides, strengthening relationships and providing valuable support beyond financial management.  By shifting the focus beyond finances to lifestyle, emotional readiness, and flexible retirement planning, financial advisers can build deeper, more meaningful relationships with pre-retirees.

The impact of quality financial advice goes well beyond financial security – something I have seen first-hand through the countless stories of advisers transforming clients' retirement journeys. Engaging in wellbeing-focused discussions ensures that clients enter retirement with confidence, clarity and a clear vision for the next stage of their lives. This approach not only enhances client trust but also reinforces the long-term value of quality financial advice.