As the financial industry evolves, Pettit sees technology as a tool rather than a replacement for human expertise. “AI and other technologies are tools that individuals like myself will be able to leverage and use to provide faster, quicker, and better service to their clients,” he explains. This perspective comes from his experience across various sectors of finance, where he’s witnessed the impact of technological advancement firsthand. Rather than viewing technology as a threat, Pettit advocates for embracing it as a means to enhance client service and professional capabilities.
Adapting to Industry Changes
While acknowledging the role of technology in streamlining processes, Pettit emphasizes the continued importance of personal interaction. “It’s only just going to make things more productive for us, and ultimately give us the ability to spend more time with clients, more time communicating with clients making sure that the vision is clear.” He compares this evolution to the medical field, noting that while technology has improved diagnostics, it hasn’t replaced the need for personal medical care.
Balancing Innovation and Tradition
For those entering the field, Pettit suggests focusing on how technology can enhance rather than replace traditional financial expertise. “Less time kind of in the weeds doing number crunching, when there’s AI and productivity tools that can really speed up that process,” he notes. This efficiency, he argues, allows finance professionals to focus more on strategic thinking and client relationships.
The Future of Client Service
Drawing from his experience, Pettit sees technology as a way to provide more comprehensive service. “I want to be the concierge doctor,” he explains, using a healthcare analogy. “There’s all kinds of resources now – there’s robo-advisors, blogs, books, personal finance information. However, sometimes that can break down along the way, and there may be larger issues that they’re not aware of.” The key, he suggests, is using technology to enhance rather than replace the human elements of financial service.