Levi Pettit Shares Communication Strategies for Financial Professionals

Clear communication is fundamental to success in finance, according to CFA charterholder Levi Pettit. Drawing from his experience across banking and investment sectors, Pettit emphasizes that effective communication can make the difference between client satisfaction and confusion.

“When it comes to communication, the most important thing is open honesty and never being afraid to over-communicate,” Pettit explains. This approach has served him well throughout his career, from his early days as an enterprise risk analyst to his more recent investment management roles.

The Importance of Transparency

Pettit, who recently completed his MBA at Pepperdine Graziadio Business School, believes that assumptions can be dangerous in financial communications. “If you just assume that they know how you feel, you can really set yourself up for failure,” he notes.

This philosophy extends to his approach with clients and colleagues alike. By prioritizing clarity and thoroughness in his communications, Pettit ensures that everyone involved in financial decisions has a complete understanding of the situation.

Adapting Communication to Different Audiences

Having worked with diverse clientele throughout his career, the finance professional has developed strategies for explaining complex financial concepts to different audiences. He tailors his communication style based on the listener’s financial background, ensuring information is accessible without being oversimplified.

This adaptability was honed during his time as a student athlete at UTD, where balancing academics, athletics, and team leadership taught him to communicate effectively across varied contexts.

Building Trust Through Communication

For those entering the finance industry, Pettit recommends focusing on communication skills alongside technical knowledge. He suggests that the ability to clearly convey financial concepts is equally important as understanding them.

“You really want to make sure that whoever you’re working with really understands the full picture,” Pettit advises, highlighting that transparency breeds trust—a currency as valuable as financial expertise in client relationships.

By prioritizing clear, honest, and thorough communication, Pettit demonstrates how financial professionals can build stronger relationships and provide better service in an increasingly complex financial landscape.