Last month, we dedicated an issue of the journal to Odds On. As we were putting that together, I had a realization. The reason I’m actually here at Hill is because of this book I read years ago.

Before Hill, I worked at Dimensional Fund Advisors. That’s how I met Matt Hall, through a study group we were putting together of advisors who had an aptitude for media and marketing. In advance of that meeting, I read Odds On. What initially stuck out to me is how the book reads. It’s not a typical finance book. There’s no jargon. There are no equations. It’s simply a story about someone finding a better way to invest and building a firm that treats clients right.

Hill is a really special place. What is apparent to me now is that the values and the things that drew me into the firm years ago still ring true. The intentionality we put into every interaction. The hospitality we try to show our clients every step along the way.

Making the switch ultimately gave me the ability to use my CFP in a much more meaningful way. Rather than just focusing on investments, now I get to help and guide clients through some of the most important financial decisions of their lives.

Looking back, reading Odds On and meeting Matt felt relatively small at the time. Today it feels more monumental. It led me to where I am now, and it shaped the way I show up for this work and the way we want to treat clients every day here at Hill.

Hill Investment Group prides itself on always having a team member, not a machine, answer our phones within two rings. We’ll never have an auto attendant answering system (during office hours) – but this means you will have to be placed on hold occasionally. Most hold music ranges from loud and irritating to the nonexistent ‘Is anyone still on the other end?’. 

You’ve likely been placed on hold at Hill Investment Group, and we try to make that experience as pleasant as possible. Whether it’s an interview clip with one of our team members or jazzy holiday tunes – we aim to entertain or educate you while we connect you. 

We’re excited to share our latest and coolest hold music, this time from one of our clients, Mr. Clint Willis. If, in 2016, you happened to be at the St. Louis launch party for Matt’s book Odds On:The Making of an Evidence-Based Investor, you might recall Clint’s soulful performance that served as a fantastic introduction (see photo). 

During a recent interaction, and because Clint is such a creative person – I couldn’t help but wonder if he could create a mellow tune for our friends to enjoy while they’re on hold – and boy did he deliver! We hope you’ll enjoy our latest hold tune the next time you call or by clicking play above!

Here at HIG, we are passionate about service and hospitality. What does this really mean for you and your financial life? Listen to John Reagan talk about it in this short message.