Personal Finance Essentials
The Ideal Financial Advisor
- Back to Choosing a Financial Advisor
- Why You May Need a Financial Advisor
- Four Kinds of Practitioners You Can Hire
- 12 Questions to Ask Prospective Advisors
- The Ideal Financial Advisor
- Nine Taboos Between You and Your Advisor
- Warning Signs of Fraud
- How to Work with Your Advisor
- Evaluating Your Advisor’s Performance
Here’s What the Right Advisor Actually Looks Like and
Why Settling for Less Will Cost You
Not every advisor who checks the regulatory boxes is the right fit for you.
As you evaluate candidates, look for someone who:
Serves as a fiduciary, putting your best interests first at all times
Takes the time to understand your complete financial situation and goals
Provides advice across all areas of personal finance through a holistic approach
Has a clearly articulated investment philosophy and explains it fully
Designs a portfolio with as much attention to risk and cost as to potential return
Takes responsibility for implementing their recommendations
Communicates proactively – not just when you initiate contact
Is willing to tell you what you need to hear, even when it’s not what you want to hear
Personally owns the same investments and insurance they recommend to clients
Has a clear succession plan to ensure continuity of service
An advisor who fits this profile will not only help you build wealth – they will help you make better financial decisions throughout your life, including at the moments that matter most.
