This Lessons Learned session explores what it really means to be the first hire in a solo practice — where expectations are fluid, workflows don’t yet exist, and the opportunity to add value is limited only by initiative. As the first paraplanner at a niche RIA serving military and federal families, I learned how to build processes while doing the work, communicate proactively, use AI to accelerate readiness, and advocate for clarity while supporting a founder with a full plate. This session empowers new professionals to step into solo firms with confidence and challenges firm owners to build partnerships—not positions—that scale. Attendees will hear real lessons, real missteps, and real strategies to succeed on both sides of the desk.
