Financial advisors with Investment Planning Counsel (IPC) can now take advantage of a new state-of-the-art online training and conference service.
The iLinc web conferencing and training software program allows IPC advisors to interact in a live environment via the Internet or company intranet. By simply using an Internet- enabled desktop or laptop computer with Microsoft PowerPoint, advisors can learn from and interact with other employees across the country.
The software has four main products or functions:
- LearnLinc – a training program where advisors can participate in live online training sessions and learn from a real instructor via web conferencing;
- MeetingLinc – to help advisors conduct online meetings with web conferencing;
- ConferenceLinc – for advisors to conduct or watch and listen to live online presentations; and
- SupportLinc – for advisors to obtain remote technical support.
“Our more than 550 advisors are the cornerstone of our business, and we’re committed to giving them the knowledge and tools they need to help investors achieve their financial goals,” says Chris Reynolds, president, IPC. “The majority of our advisors are veterans who have more than 10 years’ experience, yet we believe it’s critical for them – and industry newcomers – to continue to learn about economic trends, financial products and services, and the vision and values of our company, so they can provide their clients with the 360-degree approach to financial planning that we believe in.”
IPC says iLinc saves advisors time and money by eliminating both the travel and associated expenses incurred when attending training sessions and meetings. The software also gives IPC advisors the tools to train colleagues and support staff within a local branch or office environment by using existing computers and Internet connections.
The software has two main components. The Communications Center is a Web site where users can view the LearnLinc course catalogue, register for a course, use course materials, and join live classes, meetings, conferences or support rooms.
The iLinc Client provides an online work area and session tools, including audio conferencing, breakout groups, a whiteboard to post information, a synchronized web browser, text chat, and application sharing capabilities.