Honoring excellence in client onboarding and early engagement

First Impressions Seal

This award recognizes firms that deliver outstanding first impressions, setting the stage for long-term client relationships.

First Impressions

Overview

The First Impressions Seal is awarded to financial institutions that excel in the critical first moments of the client relationship. From account opening to initial communications, Dalbar evaluates the clarity, responsiveness, and professionalism that shape a client’s first experience. Firms that earn this recognition demonstrate the ability to start client relationships on a foundation of trust, confidence, and satisfaction.

Winning the First Impressions Seal demonstrates that your firm has achieved the highest standards in establishing client relationships. This recognition affirms your ability to create clear, responsive, and professional first interactions that build trust and confidence from the very start.

Acquisition Advantage

Demonstrates to prospects that your firm prioritizes clarity, professionalism, and trust from the very first interaction.

Reputation Builder

Positions your firm as one that understands the importance of starting relationships on the right foot.

Team Validation

Recognizes the importance of onboarding and service teams who create lasting impressions.

Recipients

Year
Company

2021

Voya
First Impressions Seal for Online Enrollment

2019

John Hancock
Online Enrollment Process

2018

John Hancock
Online Enrollment Process

2018

Voya
First Impressions Seal for Online Enrollment
Awards home page

DALBAR Awards

Widely recognized as the  benchmark of excellence in financial services, DALBAR Awards honor firms that consistently deliver outstanding service, innovation, and client experience. Each award is earned through rigorous, independent evaluation against the highest industry standards—helping firms showcase their leadership, build trust, and inspire a relentless pursuit of excellence

Why DALBAR Awards Matter

Awards at a Glance​

Winning a Dalbar award goes beyond recognition—it represents the highest standard of excellence in financial services. Every award is grounded in independent, research-based evaluations, ensuring that only firms who truly meet or exceed industry benchmarks earn this distinction.

SealCommunicationsWeb

By achieving a Dalbar award, firms demonstrate:

Credibility with Clients

Independent validation from Dalbar provides assurance to investors, plan sponsors, and stakeholders that your firm meets the highest standards of service and communication. This credibility strengthens client relationships by reinforcing transparency, accountability, and a demonstrated commitment to doing what is best for those you serve.

Competitive Differentiation

In an industry where many firms claim excellence, Dalbar recognition is the mark that proves it. Standing apart in a crowded marketplace, award-winning firms gain a clear edge when attracting new clients, retaining existing relationships, and positioning themselves as leaders in financial services.

Cultural Alignment

Recognition by Dalbar is not just an external accolade; it also reinforces your firm’s internal culture of excellence. Awards serve as a source of pride and motivation for employees at all levels, reminding teams that their daily work contributes to a standard of quality recognized across the industry.