Working with an advisor

Step 3: Selecting an advisor

With a basic understanding of your financial situation and the types of advisor services available, it’s now time to begin your selection process. How do you find an advisor?
 

Consider the following sources to find advisors:

  • Get referrals from people you trust, such as family, friends and colleagues.
  • Leverage the internet with websites like Google and LinkedIn.
  • Ask other professionals, such as your lawyer or accountant.
  • Attend educational events hosted by financial professionals.
  • Contact industry associations for recommendations.
  • Check the Better Business Bureau and your local Chamber of Commerce for possible candidates.
tablet

Take a three step approach to evaluate candidates:

  1. Prescreen. Make a short list by Checking references and credentials. Contact your provincial Securities Commission and Insurance Commission, to see if any complaints have been made against the advisor.
  2. Interview. Personality and rapport are as important in making your selection as expertise. Meeting face-to-face will allow you to see whether you would be comfortable working with that person.
  3. Prepare questions. Questions for advisors can help you do this. Be prepared to answer questions from the advisors on what you expect.
couple with advisor

Make your decision.

[Asset Included(Id:;Type:)]Start by prioritizing the needs you identified in the Advisor services checklist ; then rank the candidates on the basis of how they meet those priorities.

Consider how the conversations went during your interviews. Did you feel at ease? Were your questions answered satisfactorily? Were you comfortable providing personal information about yourself?

Taken together, all this information should lead you to choose the advisor best suited for your needs. Call the advisor to arrange your first planning meeting, and contact the other candidates to thank them for their time and assistance.