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As you ask these questions, take written notes not just on how the  

adviser seems to respond to your queries but also on how the answers 

make you feel. Do you sense that this person is trustworthy? You should come away 

feeling that you would have no concerns about sharing a close secret with this person—

because sooner or later, you probably will. If you have any doubts, find another adviser.

You, in turn, should be prepared to openly and honestly answer questions from  

financial advisers:

•

  Why do you think you need a financial adviser?

•

  How knowledgeable are you about investing and financial matters, and how  

confident are you in your knowledge?

•

  What does money mean to you?

•

  What are your biggest fears? What are your fondest hopes?

•

  How much time and energy are you willing to invest in any financial plan we develop?

•

  What would it take for you to feel our working relationship is successful?

•

  When someone presents you with evidence that your opinions may be mistaken,  

how do you respond?

•

  How do you deal with conflicts or disputes?

Invest time in picking a good financial adviser. It will be one of the most important  

decisions you make and one of the most significant relationships you ever have.

Another resource is the National Association of Personal Financial Planner’s  

“Comprehensive Financial Advisor Diagnostic” which can be found under the  

Consumer Tools section of its website, www.napfa.org.

 QueStionS to aSK (continued)