How to Find the Right Adviser

• Word of mouth is often the best way to find a financial adviser – try asking friends, family and colleagues for recommendations.  Your best option is someone who is at a similar stage of life to you. 

• Check that your adviser has relevant qualifications, such as Chartered or Certified Financial Planner, or that the firm has technical experts who specialise in the area you need help with.

• An initial meeting with an adviser would normally be free of charge and with no obligation to use their services.  You should never feel pressured into using an adviser or any of their suggestions; rather the two of you should be working together.

• Make sure you understand exactly how much you will be paying and what you can expect in return.  You should be able to choose whether you pay a fixed fee, hourly charges or a percentage of the value of your investment.

• Depending on your requirements you may need to meet your adviser once or twice a year, or perhaps just once every few years until your needs become more complex.  Advisers can also provide one off advice if you have a specific problem such as setting up insurance to protect your family.