10 Tips on Finding and Hiring a Financial Adviser

Jan 19
11:32

2010

vipinvijay

vipinvijay

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Is there really a need to hire a financial adviser? What does an adviser do? Is it worthy to get an adviser? These are some questions an investor might have in mind. Most of these investors often face the challenge of not being able to handle their very own investments. This may be brought about by lack of patience, understanding or even the self-discipline to administer their financial portfolio.

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Is there really a need to hire a financial adviser? What does an adviser do? Is it worthy to get an adviser? These are some questions an investor might have in mind.

Most of these investors often face the challenge of not being able to handle their very own investments. This may be brought about by lack of patience,10 Tips on Finding and Hiring a Financial Adviser  Articles understanding or even the self-discipline to administer their financial portfolio.

Given these issues faced by a typical investor, thus a need to hire an adviser arises.

Selecting the right financial adviser is very critical, and may be expensive. Hiring one means that the investor will be delegating management of his financial goals to another person, who most of the time may be a complete stranger to him.

Arriving at the right decision on who to hire is a truly complicated process. A lot it is at stake, therefore, choosing the right one is a must.

Here are 10 tips to help you find and hire the right financial adviser for you:

Tip #1: Research for People who fit your needs

Knowledge is power. Identify your current status, needs and opportunities you want to explore. This way, you will be able to streamline candidates, and ensure that the financial adviser you are considering will be aligned with your needs.

Tip #2: Educational Background

Education is important. Check if the the person you are considering is a Certified Financial Planner or a Resident Financial Adviser.

Tip #3: Know how long the person has been in the industry

You can research or ask the person directly to know how much experience he has in financial management. It is evident for any investor to know if he is entrusting his money to a well-experienced adviser.

Tip #4: Credibility Check (referrals; affiliations)

It is imperative for an investor to know the financial capabilities of a prospective adviser. Know his affiliations and past clients.

Tip #5: Know if the person has been reprimanded for disciplinary actions by a professional or regulatory board.

An investor logically wants to work with someone who has a clean record. Check his background and make sure that he is worth working with.

Tip #6: Ask how much is the fee

Know if you can afford your prospective financial adviser. He may be excellent at what he does, but make sure to ask yourself if hiring a financial adviser is realistic for your current financial standing. Weigh your needs and your capability to pay him.

Tip #7: Know how many clients the adviser currently works with

If you will be hiring an adviser, you would want that person to focus on your needs, and be able to address your financial goals. Know how many clients the adviser is currently working with. Make sure that if you are going to hire him, he can promise to deliver your expectations and manage your financial portfolio very well.

Tip #8: Ensure frequency of meeting with the adviser

It is important for you to be transparent with the adviser and clarify the frequency of your meetings. Regular meetings will be a venue for you to update each other, strengthen your working relationship and review financial matters.

Tip #9: Make sure all transactions and communication are well documented

Things that are not written are forgotten. Financial management is a very important matter. You would want to ensure that everything is well documented. This will protect both of you from any miscommunication that might happen.

Tip #10: Trust your instincts!

You have to trust your instincts. If you are uncomfortable with the person, don't push yourself to work with him. Trust your instinct. Working with a financial adviser doesn't only require money and knowledge. Trust is also a vital part for a successful working relationship and achieving your financial goals.