Nine Issues to Consider When Selecting a Financial Advisor
First, is the consultant experienced? Ask about how many years he has been in business, what has been the nature of his practice and the types of problems he has solved, his existing clients, and the breadth and depth of experience. You may not think your issues are complex, but you are likely not aware of some of the strategies that could benefit you most, nor are they be understood by a novice. For example, it may take years of apprenticing to be ready to address the myriad issues facing seniors, so don't be someone's guinea pig. This is especially true in the area of tax and estate planning, where many novices present public seminars with only a basic understanding of complex issues.
Second, what credentials does you consultant hold? You should be looking for legitimate and recognized credentials. Common credentials include: ChFC, CFP, CPA, CLU, JD, or other genuine designations. An advisor with only a CSA (Certified Senior Advisor) designation should be avoided. Designations such as this only require a quickie course and minimal knowledge of real financial principles.
Third, is the planner committed to high ethical standards? The advisor should hold membership in at least one industry association (Society of FSP, NAIFA, etc.). Most of these associations require adherence to a code of ethics. Of higher concern are planners that use their affiliations to bypass the establishment of trust.
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, what is your advisor's support structure? Is he a solo-practitioner, or is he part of team of specialists that can strategize on the various issues? Is the firm large enough to have the resources to provide the services that you require?
Seventh, what's the average client like? If your net worth is $500,000, and your advisor primarily deals with people with a net worth of $3-10 million, will you get the attention you need? Are there other advisors in the office that would give you better attention while still benefiting from the firm's resources? Does the advisor primarily work with senior citizens, professionals, business-owners, or whom? Will your unique needs be addressed?
Eighth, how is the advisor compensated? Is he/she paid by fees only, commissions, or both? More about planner compensation in an upcoming article.
Finally, is your advisor a professional? Be wary of persons who are merely part-timers working out of the trunk of their car, lack membership in professional societies, omit commitment to continuing professional education, and criticize others who do commit to high standards. Often they will downplay the need for education, or boast they "know more about estate planning than most attorney's out there." Smooth salespeople are often very charming, and may even present a charismatic public seminar-but they may also be dangerous because they don't know what they don't know.
Second, what credentials does you consultant hold? You should be looking for legitimate and recognized credentials. Common credentials include: ChFC, CFP, CPA, CLU, JD, or other genuine designations. An advisor with only a CSA (Certified Senior Advisor) designation should be avoided. Designations such as this only require a quickie course and minimal knowledge of real financial principles.
Third, is the planner committed to high ethical standards? The advisor should hold membership in at least one industry association (Society of FSP, NAIFA, etc.). Most of these associations require adherence to a code of ethics. Of higher concern are planners that use their affiliations to bypass the establishment of trust.
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, what is your advisor's support structure? Is he a solo-practitioner, or is he part of team of specialists that can strategize on the various issues? Is the firm large enough to have the resources to provide the services that you require?
Seventh, what's the average client like? If your net worth is $500,000, and your advisor primarily deals with people with a net worth of $3-10 million, will you get the attention you need? Are there other advisors in the office that would give you better attention while still benefiting from the firm's resources? Does the advisor primarily work with senior citizens, professionals, business-owners, or whom? Will your unique needs be addressed?
Eighth, how is the advisor compensated? Is he/she paid by fees only, commissions, or both? More about planner compensation in an upcoming article.
Finally, is your advisor a professional? Be wary of persons who are merely part-timers working out of the trunk of their car, lack membership in professional societies, omit commitment to continuing professional education, and criticize others who do commit to high standards. Often they will downplay the need for education, or boast they "know more about estate planning than most attorney's out there." Smooth salespeople are often very charming, and may even present a charismatic public seminar-but they may also be 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 finding a financial advisor for more extensive information.
posted by Credit Counseling at
4:10 AM
0 Comments:
Post a Comment
Subscribe to Post Comments [Atom]
<< Home