Cameo Roberson, founder of Atlas Park Consulting was a recent guest on the Breaking Money Silence® Podcast. In our time together, we discussed common roadblocks women face in this industry and the unique challenges advisors of color often have to overcome. Besides being a fun guest to interview, Cameo shared some great insights into how the industry can be more inclusive and how women can identify and unleash their true value. 

Q: In your work with female advisors, what are some of the challenges that women face? 

A: A major roadblock for women in the advisory space is the internal battle with self-belief and overcoming societal stereotypes about women and wealth. At Atlas Park Consulting, we encourage women to lean into their natural abilities to listen, show empathy, and build strong relationships with clients. These qualities, often overlooked, are actually superpowers in this industry.

Q: In an industry that historically lacks diversity, what are some of the specific challenges that women of color face? 

A: Women of color in the financial industry encounter several unique challenges due to a combination of historical inequities in wealth distribution and systemic racism. One significant hurdle is the lack of representation and role models within the industry, making it difficult for women of color to envision a path for themselves in a predominantly white space. This is compounded by the fact that communities of color have historically been marginalized from wealth-building opportunities, affecting their access to knowledge and resources about financial management and growth.

Q: How can individuals and organizations work to overcome these barriers?

A: To tackle these obstacles, it’s crucial for both individuals and organizations to foster an environment of mentorship and sponsorship, actively seeking to support and elevate the careers of women of color in the financial sector. This involves recognizing and addressing the unique challenges they face, providing them with the tools and opportunities to succeed, and making concerted efforts to increase diversity at all levels of the industry. By doing so, we can start to shift the narrative, ensuring that women of color not only enter the industry but also thrive and become leaders who can inspire future generations.

Q: Let’s switch gears and talk specifically about how your firm works with advisors. 

A: At Atlas Park Consulting, we focus on enabling leaders to execute their growth strategies and drive revenue without feeling overwhelmed. Our solutions are designed to improve business processes, streamline operations, and systemize day-to-day activities, preparing clients for next-level growth. This approach alleviates the burden on our clients, allowing them to focus more on their strategic objectives.

Q: You also help advisors set up systems and processes. What impact do good processes have on demonstrating value? 

A: Well-defined systems and processes are the backbone of any successful advisory practice. They instill confidence in clients from the get-go, ensuring a seamless onboarding experience and establishing a foundation of trust. For female advisors, in particular, having a structured approach can amplify their value proposition, showcasing their organizational skills and attention to detail, which are critical for client retention and referrals. 

Q: Lastly, what advice would you give to our listeners about unleashing their true value?

A: My advice is to embrace your inherent uniqueness and experiences. In moments of doubt, remind yourself of your worth and the special  value you bring to the table. Belief in oneself is the cornerstone of unleashing true value. It’s about knowing that you are enough, just as you are, and that your contributions are invaluable.

For more from Cameo Roberson, listen to my interview with her on the Breaking Money Silence® Podcast.