Selecting Your Advisor

Things To Consider

Now that you’ve made the decision to seek the professional help of a financial advisor, the question becomes, how do you find the right person? Here are some things to consider to help you make your decision.

Experience

Proven experience in the financial industry is invaluable. Look for an individual who has educational and professional qualifications to provide the level of advice and guidance you seek.

Integrity

A successful advisory relationship requires a strong foundation of trust. Ask for professional references. Choose an advisor committed to integrity in all of its business dealings and that holds advisors to high standards of ethical behavior.

Convenience

Your advisor needs to be accessible when you need him or her and attentive to your needs. Ask if he or she conducts regular reviews of your financials and whether these meetings take place in person or by phone.

Compatibility

Don’t underestimate the importance of personal fit as you interview the advisor. Trust your instincts. You will be sharing the intimate details of your finances with this individual, so it’s important to feel at ease

Products and services

Seek an advisor who has access to comprehensive wealth management solutions and quality investment research. You may need him or her to deliver the tools, products and services for a broad range of goals.

Objectivity

You want your advisor to recommend unbiased solutions that are in your best interests. Ask if he or she is free from conflicts of interest caused by sales incentives and/or selling only the products and services of certain companies.