How to find and choose a good financial advisor

Photo by Joslyn Pickens
Looking for a good financial advisor can be tricky, especially if you have no idea where to start. There are many different types of advisors out there, so it’s important to know what kinds of services you actually need before you go searching for one. Here are some tips on how to find a good financial advisor that will help you manage your finances effectively.
1. Do your research
There are many different types of financial advisors, from fee-only planners to commission-based brokers. Before you start looking for a financial advisor, take some time to learn about the different types of advisors that are available and decide which type is right for you. Read through financial services listings, talk to friends and family for recommendations, and read online reviews to learn more about the advisors in your local area. While the advisor you choose doesn’t need to focus on the exact service that you need, it’s important to find someone who has a good reputation and lots of experience in your particular area.
2. Get referrals
One of the best ways to find a good financial advisor is to ask for recommendations from people that you trust. Talk to your friends and family members who have used financial advisors in the past, and ask them what they liked or didn’t like about their experience. You can also look on review sites such as Yelp or Angie’s List to get a sense of how other people have felt about working with different advisors in your area. Additionally, consider working with a financial advisor who is affiliated with the National Association of Personal Financial Advisors (NAPFA), which is an organization that only includes financial advisors who have undergone rigorous training and meet certain ethical standards.
3. Shop around
Once you’ve done some initial research into different financial advisor options, it’s time to start shopping around and comparing rates and services. Ask each potential advisor if they offer a complimentary consultation so that you can talk to them directly and see if they would be a good fit for your needs. Also, make sure to take the time to read through any contracts carefully before signing or agreeing to anything, and ask for a list of references from each advisor that you’re considering working with. It’s important to feel comfortable and confident in your financial advisor so that you can trust them with all of your personal finances.
4. Consider your needs
Before you sign on with a financial advisor, make sure to consider your individual needs and concerns. Do you need help with investing or saving for retirement? Are you looking for more general budgeting advice? Or do you simply want someone to handle all of the paperwork and logistics involved in managing your money? By thinking about what type of assistance you require from your financial advisor ahead of time, you can more easily narrow down your search and find an advisor who is the right fit for whatever situation you’re facing.
5. Take your time
It can be tempting to just throw yourself at the first financial advisor that you meet and sign up with them on the spot, but it’s always a good idea to take your time when choosing someone who will have access to your personal finances. Shop around, ask lots of questions, and don’t be afraid to keep looking for someone else if you’re not feeling confident about working with a particular advisor. A good financial advisor will help guide you through some of the most important decisions in life, so make sure to take your time and find someone who is right for you.
6. Stay on top of your finances

Photo by Mikhail Nilov
Finally, one of the best things that you can do in order to get the most out of your financial advisor is to stay on top of your finances. Make sure to review and update your financial plan regularly, and seek out more advice or assistance if you find that you’re struggling with any aspect of money management. By working closely with a financial advisor and staying involved in your own finances, you can make sure to get the most out of their services and truly benefit from all that they have to offer.
In conclusion, there are many things that you can do in order to find a good financial advisor who is right for your needs. Start by getting referrals from people that you trust, shop around and compare rates and services with different advisors, consider your unique needs and desires when making a choice, take some time to find the perfect fit, and always stay on top of your finances by regularly reviewing and updating your financial plan. With these tips, you can find a financial advisor who will help you achieve all of your financial goals and guide you through the ups and downs of life.