Why this matters
Launching an RIA practice is rarely about one big moment. It’s the accumulation of dozens of small, high-stakes decisions made under time pressure. This playbook is designed to reduce uncertainty, protect client continuity, and help you move from “considering” to “executing” with confidence.
Before you resign (48–72 hours)
When launching an RIA practice, your goal is to eliminate decisions on resignation day. Prep the materials, people, and sequence so execution is mechanical.
- Finalize client segmentation + call list
- Confirm custodian workflow + paperwork links
- Rehearse scripts and Q&A
- Set up tracking sheet + daily huddle cadence
Breakaway transition timeline (hour-by-hour)
Treat it like a launch crew when launching an RIA practice. Everyone should know the order of operations and escalation paths.
- Resign (per counsel guidance)
- Start client outreach immediately
- Log all outcomes
- Route paperwork to ops team
First 72 Hours of a New RIA Practice
For a new RIA practice, this is where momentum compounds. Your priority is client certainty and paperwork throughput.
- Day 1: top clients + high-value households
- Day 2: next tier + follow-ups
- Day 3: stabilize + resolve bottlenecks
