| Because of our recent economic conditions it seems | | | | investments. |
| as though people are scrambling to try to find the | | | | It is critical to find a financial advisor that looks at the |
| right advice on how to financially plan for retirement. | | | | entire financial picture and not just investments |
| Companies are going bankrupt or laying off their | | | | because it is impossible to give sound financial advice |
| employees, and unemployment is in double digits. | | | | while only looking at one part of a client's financial |
| Therefore, there is a bit of uncertainty as to how to | | | | needs. There also needs to be a fiduciary |
| plan for a safe and comfortable retirement. Some | | | | responsibility between the advisor and the client. The |
| people ask family members because they seem to | | | | client needs to know that the advice they are |
| be somewhat financially independent and have a little | | | | receiving is in their best interest, and that the advisor |
| experience with financial products. Family members | | | | is not just trying to make a sale. What will happen |
| could not possibly give sound financial advice because | | | | many times is that an advisor will be pushed to make |
| there are so many different types of financial | | | | a sale on a certain security by their company. The |
| products and most of them are extremely complex. | | | | security itself may or may not be of any value to |
| Many people watch news shows or read blogs or | | | | the client, but in order for the advisor to make some |
| columns on the internet that are produced by major | | | | quick cash they will sell this security. The most |
| media corporations. The advice given here is typically | | | | important thing between an advisor and a client is |
| generic information and is intended for the masses. | | | | trust. The client has to feel comfortable with the |
| This information could not possibly be helpful because | | | | advisor and know that the decisions they make are |
| each person's financial situation is unique, and a | | | | in the client's best interest. |
| nationally broadcasted show could not possibly give | | | | When looking for a financial advisor, ask them about |
| sound advice for a particular client, nor could they | | | | their credentials in the industry. A professional |
| cover everything a client needs. Some will ask their | | | | designation such as Certified Financial Planner or |
| certified public accountant who also does their taxes. | | | | Chartered Financial Consultant ensures fiduciary |
| Certified Public Accountants are not a bad choice for | | | | responsibility. Be sure to ask them questions and |
| completing your taxes, but a CPA's focus is to | | | | make sure they are a good fit for you. Their |
| decrease your tax burden, and with this approach | | | | philosophy may be different form yours, so it is |
| you may miss out on some important investment | | | | important to find a good fit between you and your |
| opportunities. Others will find a Financial advisor who | | | | advisor. It is also important to give your advisor |
| can look at their whole financial picture and tailor a | | | | correct information. Do not be afraid or embarrassed |
| plan that is right for them. This is a great choice | | | | to tell them what your current financial picture is |
| because an expert will give you a clear picture of | | | | because the advisor can only help you with what |
| your financial situation, and can help you accomplish | | | | they know you have. The most important thing is to |
| your goals and plan for a safe and comfortable | | | | take action. Go find your financial advisor and be on |
| retirement. This will allow the client to focus on things | | | | your way to a safe and comfortable retirement. |
| that they would rather do besides handling their | | | | |