Here are some quick tips for you if you’re thinking of hiring a financial planner. You must take them into consideration before you hire one, or you could be in danger of not getting the best you can, or worse.

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Make sure they’re competent

You have to ensure that your planner has the right credentials. Refer to an earlier article of mine which shows you what a Certified Financial Planner is.

Just Investing is not enough

Remember that you want someone who can advise you on a range of financial topics including insurance and mortgage payments. Planning doesn’t end with just investments.

Know how your planner is making his or her money

You need to know how much of a vested interest a planner has in recommending a particular product. If he is getting a cut out of whatever he sells to you be wary of his advice, as it is unlikely to be dispassionate.

Check and see how well he gets to know you

You don’t want someone who is looking to push their own agenda onto you. What your planner feels are the right life goals may not be what you think are the right life goals. For example, if he feels that you need to start saving for your kids college fund, and doesn’t take your word for it that you don’t ever plan to have kids, reject him. You’re hiring him so that he can advise you on how to reach your goals, not so that he can decide your goals for you.