8 Questions To Ask When Interviewing Financial Advisors
When working to get your financial house in order, choosing an investment advisor will be one of your most important decisions. An investment advisor will work with you to set financial goals and to develop a financial plan that will enable you to achieve them. Then, the advisor will choose and recommend financial products that will enhance your personal financial situation. But, how can you choose the best one for your financial household?
Your first priority should be to choose someone in which you are comfortable with. Begin your search by asking your friends and family members for referrals. Also, refer to books, financial seminars, and financial literacy for the names of potential advisors. Develop a list containing several options so that you can compare a number of people before making your final hiring decision.
Once you have compiled your list of potential investment advisors, set appointments with each one. Consider the reputation, education, expertise, and professional designations of each. What experience does each candidate have working with individuals who have similar circumstances to your own? Cross of any potential candidate on your list which does not meet the criteria you have established.
Once you have determined that each potential candidate possesses the education and professional experience you are searching for, you want to review their investment philosophies. Does their investment philosophy match your own? Before interviewing advisors, be sure that you have considered your own personal investment philosophies and your risk tolerance level. Remember; search for a teacher, not just a salesman!
Here is a list of potential questions which will help you during your investment advisor search:
- Do you offer a periodic portfolio review session?
- How often will we meet in person to discuss progress and any changes?
- How often can I expect you to contact me?
- What products and services are you likely to recommend? What products and services do you have the option to recommend to clients?
- Are the advisor’s offices convenient in location?
- What are the costs associated with working with each advisor? Are there flat fees, commissions, or an hourly rate associated with forming a partnership?
- How does the amount of capital you have to invest compare to the advisor’s other clients?
- Is the advisor accessible to answer questions? If not, who on the team will be accessible when the primary investment advisor is not?
In addition to all of the factors mentioned above, communication is also a vital component of a successful professional relationship. Good communication between you as the client and on behalf of your financial advisor is critical, beginning from the initial point of contact. And of course, you can’t rule out chemistry. Choose someone in which you feel comfortable communicating with, someone whom you feel you can trust and someone you feel confident will work with you to help you achieve your personal financial goals and objectives.