Preparing to Meet with a Financial Advisor

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Prepare, Assess, and Thrive: Navigate Your Financial Voyage with Confidence and Trust

Published: January 31, 2024

Start with Clarity
Take a moment to consider your financial goals and what motivated you to reach out to an advisor in the first place. Whether it’s building retirement savings or planning for college expenses, having clear objectives will guide the conversation. Remember, it’s normal not to have everything figured out—that’s precisely why you’re seeking professional guidance. That said, get clear on your need for a professional relationship – it’ll typically be one of the first questions the advisor will ask.

Conduct a FINRA Check
Before meeting with a financial advisor, it’s important to perform due diligence. A crucial part of this is reviewing the BrokerCheck resource with the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA). This will reveal their background, experience, and if there have been any disciplinary actions against the advisor or their firm. A FINRA check can provide peace of mind that the advisor is in good standing and has adhered to industry standards and regulations. It’s a simple but effective step in ensuring the advisor’s credibility and legitimacy.

Explore their Digital Footprint
In today’s digital age, a financial advisor’s website and online content can be as telling as a face-to-face meeting. Take the time to explore their website, read through any articles they’ve written, and watch any videos they’ve produced. This content can give you a sense of their knowledge, expertise, and the type of advice they provide. It’s also an opportunity to see if their financial philosophies align with your personal values and goals.

Establish Your Criteria
Reflect on the qualities that are most important to you in a financial advisor. Consider their experience, their client communication style, or their history of dealing with similar financial situations to yours. Knowing your criteria will help you evaluate whether the advisor is the right fit for your financial needs.

Prepare Questions in Advance
Prepare a list of questions that will help you uncover the advisor’s approach and suitability for your needs. Here are a few questions to consider:

  • “What does your typical client look like?”
  • “What should I expect in terms of communication and collaboration with you?”
  • “Can you share your professional background and experience?”
  • “How many clients do you serve, and how personalized are your services?”
  • “What is the cost structure for your services?”
  • “What planning tools or resources do you use, and will I have access to them?”
  • “Who comprises your team, and who will I directly work with?”

Trust Your Instincts
After the meeting, assess how you feel. Were all your questions answered to your satisfaction? Did the advisor make you feel at ease? Your instincts can be a powerful gauge of whether the advisor is someone with whom you can build a trusting relationship.

No Pressure
An ethical financial advisor will understand that choosing an advisor is a significant decision that should not be rushed. Be wary of any advisor who pressures you to make a decision on the spot. A genuine advisor will give you the space and time to consider your options.

By embracing these steps, you’re not only preparing for a meeting but setting the foundation for a long-term partnership that aligns with your financial aspirations and personal values. Here’s to finding an advisor who can help you navigate your financial voyage with confidence and trust.

Ready to take the next step? Contact Hall Financial Advisors today to set up a meeting and start your journey with confidence. Let us guide you towards your financial aspirations and personal goals. Reach out now!

 

 

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1 2024 Forbes America's Top Wealth Management Teams Best-in StateThe 2024 Forbes ranking of America’s Top Wealth Management Teams Best-In-State, developed by SHOOK Research, is based on an algorithm of qualitative criteria, mostly gained through telephone and in-person due diligence interviews, and quantitative data. This ranking is based upon the period from 3/31/2022 to 3/31/2023 and was released on 01/09/2024. Advisor teams that are considered must have one advisor with a minimum of seven years of experience, have been in existence as a team for at least one year, have at least 5 team members, and have been nominated by their firm. The algorithm weights factors like revenue trends, assets under management, compliance records, industry experience and those that encompass best practices in their practices and approach to working with clients. Portfolio performance is not a criteria due to varying client objectives and lack of audited data. Out of approximately 10,100 team nominations, 4,100 advisor teams received the award based on thresholds. This ranking is not indicative of an advisor's future performance, is not an endorsement, and may not be representative of individual clients' experience. Neither Raymond James nor any of its Financial Advisors or RIA firms pay a fee in exchange for this award/rating. Raymond James is not affiliated with Forbes or Shook Research, LLC. Please see https://www.forbes.com/lists/wealth-management-teams-best-in-statefor more info.