How to Get the Most Out of Your Financial Planner

Decided to appoint a financial planner? Good decision!

A certified financial planner will help you draw out your lifestyle goals, build value in your business and plan your exit in good time, all to help you live the life you really want.

We know it’s a commitment of time and money so here’s our advice to get the most out of your investment.

• Choose a financial planner that you feel comfortable with

Not every financial planner is going to be a good fit for you. Interview several before you choose an experienced financial planner with good credentials.

You should feel comfortable about being truly open and honest with the planner you choose, so you can feel that your needs and desires are going to be fully heard. It’s about you the person, not about your numbers.

• Make sure your financial planner is committed to collaborating with clients

Financial planning shouldn’t be one-sided. You and your financial planner should be working together as a team.

In addition, your planner should be able to tweak your financial plan as you go along and as needs change to fit new circumstances.

• Meet regularly – and bring your spouse as applicable

Your financial planner’s wisdom is only as good as your willingness to fully take advantage of it. Therefore, meet regularly as your plan unfolds and is established.

Your spouse should also participate in the meetings so that he or she is fully aware of and agreeable to perspective plans, particularly pertaining to retirement.

• Ask questions

Every good financial planner is going to focus on creating a bespoke financial plan that serves your vision for the future. That said, financial planners aren’t mind readers.

If you have questions at any point during your meetings, ask for explanations, clarify terms, and the like.

• Clarify fees 

Ask for full disclosure of fees before you begin to work together – and ask for them in writing.

What you’ll end up paying will be determined by your particular needs, but every good financial planner should be able to give you solid estimates based upon the services you request.

These points should help ensure your investment in a financial planner is a sound one, and sets up a healthy and productive relationship between you.

If you’re ready to build a financial plan, use our 12 Step Guide to Future Financial Freedom.