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The Mistakes You Should Avoid When Selecting a Financial Planner

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Bryce Campbell
The Mistakes You Should Avoid When Selecting a Financial Planner

Choosing a financial advisor is an essential decision that will shape the course of your finances for years to come. If you're ready to take charge and make strides in your long-term wealth planning, hiring a professional can be just what you need. Making such a momentous decision should not be taken lightly. Uncover the ten missteps people tend to make when selecting a financial advisor, and gain more insight on how to pick the ideal monetary expert for your requirements.


Hiring On Referral Alone


In this situation, one size does not fit all; consequently, when determining who to hire as your financial planner you must base the decision solely on what your friend has shared about them. Financial planning is a broad measure of an individual’s current financial standing. Financial circumstances are often tricky and a financial planner may not be able to handle all types of monetary predicaments. Be sure to do your due diligence, relying on what you've decided is important rather than listening to the opinion of others. Identify financial advisors who specialize in financial planning. A CFP® or fiduciary advisor might be the ideal fit.


Hiring On Path of Least Resistance


If you rely solely on an existing relationship when deciding to hire a financial planner, then you may be making a costly error. To ensure the best financial future for yourself and your family, it is essential to hire a professional financial planner who can assess and accommodate both your current and long-term needs. Furthermore, make certain that the individual you're considering is fully qualified to manage your financial requirements.


Hiring On Past Performance Alone


Choosing a financial planner based solely on their past accomplishments may be misguided. While a financial planner's past performance may be impressive, it, unfortunately, does not guarantee that the same level of success will continue or serve as an accurate measure for plans. If you realize that your financial planner is not adjusting your finances to keep up with the current market or setting you up for a more financially secure future, then it might be time to move on.


Hiring Without Homework


When searching for a financial planner, there is an abundance of things that must be taken into account. It is important to find the right fit who covers all your wants and needs in terms of their qualifications and the services provided. Advisors who specialize in financial planning can be more helpful for millennial investors than one generally associated with older individuals.


Before making your decision, you must investigate the financial planner's qualifications and reach out to their previous clients to determine how they managed similar finances. Making an informed decision is a key factor in selecting the right financial advisor for you, so do your research! Ensure that you interview multiple advisors to get a sense of their personalities and investment strategies before settling on one. By doing this, you can be confident that you have chosen the very best option available.


Hiring on Hype


Of course, we all desire a top-notch financial planner; however, that doesn't mean the one promising to deliver miracles is necessarily the best choice. Generally speaking, those who rely solely on their charm and persuasion lack the necessary skills to be truly successful. The same concept applies to financial advisors. When selecting a financial planner, be sure that they not only focus on locating the most lucrative investment and examining market

trends. They should also take into consideration your personal goals to tailor an optimal plan for you. Financial planning is a holistic exercise. When selecting a financial planner, ensure that their primary focus is on your long-term fiscal well-being. They consistently make sound decisions, regardless of the circumstances.


Hiring a Non-Fiduciary Advisor


When it comes to financial advisors, quality matters—not all are equal in their experience and expertise. Professional advisors must comply with varying legal standards, and the fiduciary standard is by far the most stringent. A fiduciary financial advisor holds a strict legal requirement to always prioritize the best interests of their clients. This special relationship of trust guarantees that you don't have to agonize over discrepancies, as your advisor creates tailored wealth management and investment plans for you. As a fiduciary, your adviser will never suggest an investment product for which they receive commission. This is something you must be vigilant about if you choose to work with a financial advisor who does not have the same obligation to act in your best interests. Effective financial planning relies upon open communication and mutual trust.


Hiring the First Advisor


When it comes to your financial future, selecting the right partner is crucial. Make sure that you are thorough and deliberate when choosing someone who can assist in cultivating a secure wealth portfolio. Sure, the financial advisor down the street may be convenient, but is it worth sacrificing quality service and results just for a few minutes of travel time? Don't settle - make sure you are finding the best advisor that meets your needs. It's easy to hastily hire the first financial professional you come across, yet choosing a reliable one demands more contemplative thought. It would be wise to consult with at least three professionals before making a decision. This approach enables you to evaluate and compare, query inquiries, and receive an in-depth understanding of the customer experience each offers.


Hiring Without Commonality


To obtain the most out of your investment portfolio, it is paramount to seek and heed advice from a qualified financial advisor. Your advisor needs to tailor their approach such that it harmoniously meets your objectives and is consistent with your preferences. Specifically, risk tolerance is a critical part of your approach and it will vary from person to person. If your financial goals are skewed more towards safety, such as bonds, and a potential advisor is taking a high-risk stock approach, then it may be wise to search for alternate advice. Your financial advisor should be prepared to customize a plan that is tailored specifically to you and your desires. Work with a financial advisor who values your points of view.


Hiring Without Verification


The decisions you make based on the guidance of your financial advisor can alter your life in more ways than one. To ensure you get the most out of your advisors, it's important to inquire about their credentials. Discover which assessments they have passed, the licenses that have been granted to them, and their qualifications. Have they completed the Series 7 exam? Or, have they gone further and obtained their Series 65 or 66 credentials as well? If you are looking for that extra assurance in your financial advisor, the CFP® certification is a great option to consider.


Hiring Without Understanding


Make sure you invest the time to thoroughly understand a financial advisor's fees, as there can be significant differences. Certain advisors charge a single transparent fee, while others take a percentage of your overall assets being managed. When advisors have an interest in the commission earned from financial products or mutual funds, a major conflict of interest arises. Remember, fees will impact your overall nest egg and you should have clarity on exactly how your advisor gets paid.


Start the conversation - Get your financial plan

underway or back on track with a free consultation with William Bevins, CFP®. About William Bevins: William Bevins is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER (CFP®) and fiduciary financial advisor. His training includes the areas of tax planning, insurance, and estate planning. His planning is designed to help professionals achieve their financial goals through retirement planning, smart investment advice, reducing taxes, and maximizing their money. For more information to learn how to choose a financial advisor, the benefits of personal financial advisors, or hiring independent advisors - please reach out via email [email protected].


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