You know, as I sit back and think about this year, I realize just how much I’ve learned from working with clients. Being a part of Fund Capital America’s business development team has taught me lessons that go way beyond just contracts and numbers. It’s about people—real people with real stories. And 2024? It’s been a year that reminded me of that over and over again.

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned this year is the importance of listening—not just hearing, but really listening. I’ll admit, when I first started, I thought I understood what our clients needed based on what they said in the first five minutes. When I took the time to ask the right questions and dig a little deeper, I often found that their real needs weren’t what they initially mentioned.

For example, I had a client earlier this year who came to us stressed out about funding for a personal injury lawsuit. At first, they seemed to want quick answers, fast solutions. But as we talked, I realized what they really needed was reassurance. They wanted to feel like they were in good hands and that someone understood the emotional toll of their situation. That conversation taught me that sometimes, it’s not just about providing funding—it’s about providing peace of mind.

People appreciate when you’re clear about what’s realistic and what’s not. I’ve had clients thank me specifically for not sugarcoating things. They don’t just want solutions; they want to feel confident in those solutions.

And then there’s the power of empathy. This year has shown me just how crucial it is to connect on a human level. Many of the clients I’ve worked with are dealing with some of the toughest times in their lives—whether it’s recovering from an accident, facing financial stress, or dealing with legal uncertainties. Approaching those conversations with empathy rather than just efficiency changes everything. It’s not about closing a deal; it’s about showing up for people when they need it most.

Finally, one of my biggest takeaways from 2024 is that every client interaction is a chance to learn and grow. Whether it’s about improving our services, refining my approach, or even rethinking how we position ourselves as a team, every conversation matters.

So, as this year wraps up, I’m carrying these lessons with me: listen deeply, be transparent, lead with empathy, and always, always strive to grow. Working at Fund Capital America has been an incredible journey, and I’m so grateful for the clients who’ve trusted us to be a part of their stories.