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Tom Morison, mortgage and finance adviser at Smartmove, shares how winning his first client referral at the age of 12 ignited a lasting passion that guides his business to this day
Q: What are your top survival tips for working in finance?
A: In an ever-changing mortgage marketplace, with more developments over the past 12 months than the previous 12 years combined, my number one tip is to manage client expectations – something I’ve often found to be underestimated. My word is my bond and, except in circumstances outside my control, I must always deliver to preserve my clients’ trust, be it an email or a bank approval.
Q What was your first job?
A: From a young age, my dad had me take care of the family yard, mowing the grass and trimming the edges. He was, and is, self-employed, so when I was in Year 6 he encouraged me to distribute homemade flyers through the neighbourhood o ering my services. The business grew quickly; at its height, I had 15 customers, which made for a full schedule with having school all week and only working on weekends. I received my first-ever client referral from an existing customer during that time. Thirteen years later, I still have one customer whose yard I take care of once a month.
Q: What’s your favourite way to relax after a stressful time at work?
A: I don’t feel intensely stressed in my work, as I feel I need to be calm and collected to deliver the best results. However, when I’ve had multiple clients purchase a home at once with short settlements, or clients with very complex circumstances, it’s especially beneficial to have a strong routine to help clear my mind and reset. Every Sunday, I go for a walk of at least 20km on the coast around Sydney. Waverton to Neutral Bay or North Bondi to South Coogee are a couple of my favourites.
Q: What’s one of your recent career highlights?
A: Receiving support from an existing client who has referred family, friends or work colleagues to me always has and always will be a career highlight. There is no feeling as rewarding or humbling as that level of trust. Further, the industry recognition I’ve received, such as being named the Australian Mortgage Awards Young Gun of the Year, confirms that my practices and strategies are on track and heading in the right direction.
