Nine Issues to Consider When Selecting a Financial Consultant
First, is the advisor experienced? When meeting with the advisor for the first time, you will want to ask how long they have been in business, the types of clients they typically handle, and the breadth of experience they possess. Although your issues may not seem overly complex, you may not be fully aware of all the strategies available to employ. Challenges facing seniors can be especially tricky, make sure you are not the advisor's guinea pig. Many novices present public seminars with only have a very basic knowledge of tax and estate planning issues.
Second, as mentioned earlier, what is your advisor's educational background? Look for bonafide credentials such as ChFC, CFP, CPA, CLU, JD, or other legitimate credentials. These signify background in investments, taxation, estate planning, finance, business, insurance, law, economics, etc. and require comprehensive examinations from accredited educational institutions, years of experience, and advanced continuing education requirements. Beware of those that solely have one of the many "quickie" designations proliferating these days.
Third, does the advisor have a commitment to high ethical standards? Look for membership in at least one industry association (such as NAIFA, Society of FSP, FPA, IBCFP, etc.) that enforces a code of ethics. Of particular concern in ethics are those that not-so-subtly use their church affiliation in advertising.
Fourth, is the advisor diligent in their continuing education? In an increasing regulated and governed environment, laws are constantly changing, and the economy is always in motion. Are they keeping up with current laws, and keeping on top of changes that affect their clientele? What level of study do they pursue (basic, intermediate, or advanced)?
Fifth, what services do you need? Comprehensive retirement, tax strategies and estate planning? Solely tax advice? An investment advisor? Real estate advice? Or, is he just an insurance salesman? Identify an advisor that emphasizes the services you need.
Sixth, is your advisor a solo-practitioner? Or is your advisor part of a team that he can turn to for strategizing on complex issues? Or to bring an additional perspective? Is his firm large enough to provide the extensive resources as a large firm of pros?
Seventh, what is the advisor's average client like? Do you fall into the range of his typical client, and if not, will you receive the attention that you need? Would someone else at the firm give you better attention? What is the general demographic that the advisor primarily works with (seniors, pre-retirees, young couples, etc.)? You want to make sure that your unique needs will be met.
Eighth, how is the consultant compensated? The three most common planning types include: fee-only, fee-based, and commission only.
Finally, is your advisor a full-time professional? Be wary of those individuals who only do their planning on the side or part time, lack membership in societies, do not subscribe to high ethical standards, avoid continuing education, lack legitimate credentials, or suggest that these things aren't important. There are many charming salespersons out there, ready and willing to sell their services to you. These individuals are dangerous because they don't know what they don't know.
Second, as mentioned earlier, what is your advisor's educational background? Look for bonafide credentials such as ChFC, CFP, CPA, CLU, JD, or other legitimate credentials. These signify background in investments, taxation, estate planning, finance, business, insurance, law, economics, etc. and require comprehensive examinations from accredited educational institutions, years of experience, and advanced continuing education requirements. Beware of those that solely have one of the many "quickie" designations proliferating these days.
Third, does the advisor have a commitment to high ethical standards? Look for membership in at least one industry association (such as NAIFA, Society of FSP, FPA, IBCFP, etc.) that enforces a code of ethics. Of particular concern in ethics are those that not-so-subtly use their church affiliation in advertising.
Fourth, is the advisor diligent in their continuing education? In an increasing regulated and governed environment, laws are constantly changing, and the economy is always in motion. Are they keeping up with current laws, and keeping on top of changes that affect their clientele? What level of study do they pursue (basic, intermediate, or advanced)?
Fifth, what services do you need? Comprehensive retirement, tax strategies and estate planning? Solely tax advice? An investment advisor? Real estate advice? Or, is he just an insurance salesman? Identify an advisor that emphasizes the services you need.
Sixth, is your advisor a solo-practitioner? Or is your advisor part of a team that he can turn to for strategizing on complex issues? Or to bring an additional perspective? Is his firm large enough to provide the extensive resources as a large firm of pros?
Seventh, what is the advisor's average client like? Do you fall into the range of his typical client, and if not, will you receive the attention that you need? Would someone else at the firm give you better attention? What is the general demographic that the advisor primarily works with (seniors, pre-retirees, young couples, etc.)? You want to make sure that your unique needs will be met.
Eighth, how is the consultant compensated? The three most common planning types include: fee-only, fee-based, and commission only.
Finally, is your advisor a full-time professional? Be wary of those individuals who only do their planning on the side or part time, lack membership in societies, do not subscribe to high ethical standards, avoid continuing education, lack legitimate credentials, or suggest that these things aren't important. There are many charming salespersons out there, ready and willing to sell their services to you. These individuals are dangerous because they don't know what they don't know.
About the Author:
Hank Brock is president of Brock and Associates, LLC, a firm specializing in retirement, estate, tax, and business planning. Be sure to check out Hank's article on selecting a financial advisor for more extensive information.
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