The dimensions of diversity can be anything that has been historically used to differentiate groups, such as ethnicity, gender, religious beliefs or socio-economic status. Identity evolves over one’s lifetime, but it always dictates how we see ourselves and how others see us. When you meet someone new or see someone for the first time, what do you notice? How does that shape your interactions?

Dealing with diversity can be daunting. It can help to keep in mind the Seven Underlying Principles of Diversity. Learn about them here.

The Financial Health Network created a study that examines the impact of a new mobile app savings feature, Quick Save, which allows members to spontaneously transfer small amounts to their savings accounts with the swipe of a button.

The study provides valuable information for financial institutions dedicated to helping customers build emergency savings, with insights into designing a savings tool that appeals to customers with low to moderate incomes.

The IRS has started sending out letters to families who may qualify for the child tax credit. As part of the American Rescue Plan Act, those who qualify for the child tax credit are now automatically enrolled by the IRS to receive advance payments.

It's important to have conversations with your members on how this can impact them based on their level of income. Take the time to look into this credit, and encourage members to reach out to tax professionals.

In 2017, financial counselors in Nashville and Philadelphia tested an innovative approach to defining, discussing, and tracking their clients’ efforts to build savings, using new savings outcomes.

The goal was to identify how people with low incomes save, to tell a more complete story about the impact of financial counseling on savings, and to learn whether changing a program’s data system affects the way financial counselors work and the results the people taking their advice achieve.

Empathy and authenticity. Do you apply these traits to your job, your financial coaching?

So much about impactful financial coaching is centered around the ability to connect with members when they may be struggling, or beginning a new stage in life. Consider watching these TED Talks to brush up on how empathy and authenticity can make a difference in your everyday interactions.