You may have the skills, and even the time to manage your own finances, but is that what you really want to be doing?  

Elite and professional athletes have coaches.  These athletes have the knowledge and skills to train and play on their own; however, coaches give them unbiased feedback, encourage them to do more, notice their strengths and areas for improvement, refine strategies and typically have specialized knowledge and training.

First, you need to decide if you want to work with an advisor, do it on your own, or perhaps a combination of the two.

You will be sharing extremely personal details about your financial situation, dreams and goals – so it’s important to work with someone you trust and feel extremely comfortable with.

Here are 10 questions and considerations when you are interviewing potential advisors:

1. Do you feel that this person listens to you and understands what’s important to you? Do you feel connected?

2. Does the advisor have experience in working with clients like you?  A PGA golf coach is not a good fit for helping a football player.

3. What type of education, accreditations and licenses does the advisor have? What is their experience?

4. Does the advisor work as part of a team or on his or her own? If the advisor doesn’t work with a team, what happens if he or she leaves the business or is out of town when you need help?

5. How is the advisor compensated?  Does he or she earn more when you do well, or is compensation based on transactions?

6. Are they independent or do they work for a firm which may limit what they can offer.

7. What type of independent third-party recognitions or awards has he or she received?

8. Does the advisor have the time to provide you with the attention you need and deserve?

9. What resources do they have? For example, access to a Trust Company, lines of credit or a mortgage?

Finally –

10. How can they improve and simplify your life?

Finding the right advisor is a process that can take time; however, once you get it right, the partnership can be for life so it’s worth your time and effort to interview several potential advisors or teams.

Feel free to reach out to our team to discuss your situation or whenever we can answer questions.  We look forward to meeting and learning about your personal vision. 

There is neither a cost nor any obligation.   Even if we are not a good fit for you, we can usually refer you to someone who is.