Showing clients the value of advice is becoming more and more important — especially during the age of the robo-advisor and increasing disclosure requirements. If you let too much time pass without contact, your clients may start to wonder exactly what they’re getting in return for the fees they pay, says Richard Heft, executive director of Ext. Marketing Inc. in Toronto.

Let your clients know that you’re proactive and always ready to help, Heft says. By staying “top of mind” with your clients, you’re consistently showing the value you bring to the relationship.

Here are four tips for staying in touch:

> Update clients on their portfolios
Keep your clients informed that you’re monitoring their portfolios and holdings for any changes in the market.

“Tell them that you will contact them accordingly if you need to recommend some changes, adjustments or rebalancing of any kind,” Heft says. “This is especially true during times of economic or financial turbulence.”

When economic news dominates the headlines, reassure your clients by phoning or emailing them to say that you’re monitoring the situation — even if the issue at hand does not have a major impact on your client’s portfolio.

> Stay active online
Maintaining a blog is one way to distribute thoughtful or helpful ideas that your clients can peruse in their own time, Heft says. Whether you write your own articles or share content from other experts, your posts will show that you are committed to sharing important information with your clients.

Clients often respond well to a mix of lifestyle and financial topics.

> Create a call to action
Whether you’re blogging, emailing financial and personal updates or distributing newsletters, encourage your clients to contact you with any questions or concerns they might have.

If clients think you’re too busy or their question too insignificant, they may be hesitant to phone.

> Celebrate milestones
Let clients know that you’re thinking of them by mailing a card or sending a personal email for birthdays and important anniversaries.

If a client has a son or daughter leaving the nest for college or university, get in touch to congratulate them, while also saying that you’re available to help the student reach his or her financial goals.