Many of us ask more questions on a first date, then when interviewing a financial planner, and we entrust them with our wealth!

So, what would you ask on a first date? A financial first date with a financial planner that is!

Have you been wanting the help and advice of a planner, but don’t know how to choose a planner to see if they are a good fit for your needs and style

Well there are five key areas I believe you should ask about:

Background – you’ll want to know about their career, education and designation. Basically you want to know who are you dealing with and their relevant experience.

Clients – Who do they typically work with. This will tell you about their expertise. Ideally you’ll want to have a profile, which matches the type of clientele that your planner already deals with. This will ensure that the planner is familiar with the kinds of questions and challenges you might have.

Process – If you are going to be in a financial relationship, it is important to know their approach and how you are going to be working together.

Fees –  You’ll want to ensure you have a good understanding how your planner is being compensated and what you are going to be charged.

Validation – A planner can have all the “right answers” but they have to be a good fit for you. One way to understand how a planner works with their clients is to ask for a recommendation.

Just like dating, where you wouldn’t settle for the first person you date, so it is with a financial planner, you don’t have to entrust your money with the first one you meet. There is nothing wrong with interviewing a financial planner to see if they are the right fit for you.

You should remember that working with you and managing your money is a privilege that should be earned and if you’re not happy with your current planner, there is no reason why you should stay with them.