To make the most of your investment planning, you’ll need to rely on a financial adviser you can trust. If you don’t have one already, there are a number of ways you can find one.
Often, personal recommendation is a good way, although you should check with local regulators if you can, to be sure the adviser is suitably authorised. If you live in the UK you can visit www.unbiased.co.uk to get a list of financial advisers local to you.
If you don’t live in the UK, you can contact one of our offices for a list of financial advisers in your region who have terms of business with us:
Choosing your financial adviser
For most people, their relationship with their financial adviser is a long-term one. That’s why it’s important to get the most from it. Here are a few things to consider:
Expertise: Most customers have specific financial planning needs. If you are interested in a particular area of investing, such as retirement or inheritance tax planning, choose an adviser with appropriate experience in that field
Flexibility: Is it more convenient to see them at your home or at the office? Check with your adviser to see how flexible they are.
Payment: Different types of advisers are paid for their services in different ways. If you prefer to pay your adviser directly by fee rather than through commission, make sure that your adviser offers this option.
Comfort: It makes sense to deal with people you feel comfortable with. For example, if you prefer to deal with a female adviser, some sites can allow you to filter your online search by gender.
Trust: Be sure that you’re putting your trust in someone with the appropriate authorisation by checking with local regulators. If you are in the UK you can check the Financial Services Authority's Central Register.
Try before you buy: Advisers will typically offer an initial meeting free of charge, providing you with an opportunity to see if they are right for you.
Ask questions: There are questions you will want to ask before deciding upon an adviser and during your first meeting with them. It’s your chance to make sure they are right for your needs, so don’t be shy. It’s your future and you have to get it right.
Choosing your adviser is your first step in making a solid plan for your future, so take your time to think it through.