When it comes to your financial advisory career, a healthy culture is crucial for growth, happiness, and success. But what do you do if your gut is telling you it may be time to leave? On a recent episode of the Breaking Money Silence Podcast, Alanah Phillips, a RIA recruiter, speaker and podcaster shared five signs that it might be time to break up with your broker-dealer.

The Firm Controls the Money
If your firm controls how and when you’re compensated or limits your ability to invest back into your business, it’s a red flag. You should be empowered to make financial decisions that best support your goals and clients.

Lack of Recognition
Are you winning awards, earning designations, or bringing in new clients, but your firm doesn’t celebrate your achievements? If your successes go unnoticed, it may be time to consider a firm that truly values you.

They Control Your Time
If your schedule is filled with mandatory meetings or tasks that don’t contribute to your growth or the success of your practice, it’s another warning sign. Your time should be spent growing your business and serving your clients, not on inefficient firm obligations.

Promises That Don’t Materialize
If your firm has promised you partnerships, promotions, or other opportunities that never seem to come to fruition, you may need to reevaluate your loyalty. Broken promises can indicate that the firm doesn’t have your best interests at heart; it’s time to reevaluate whether they’re truly invested in your future.

Control Over Your Image
Many firms restrict how you can present yourself to the world, whether it’s through social media, professional branding, or even how you dress. If this control is stifling your authenticity and connection with clients, it may be time to find a firm that allows you to be yourself.

If these signs sound familiar, it could be time to consider new opportunities. Just like in personal relationships, professional partnerships should encourage growth, respect, and mutual benefit. If your broker-dealer isn’t meeting those needs, you deserve to explore better opportunities. Don’t ignore that gut feeling – your career and success may depend on making a change.

Consider setting up a free coaching discovery call with me to find out how I can support you during this transition. I love guiding women to find an advisory firm that celebrates their true value!