Your advisor should be able to understand your investment style and risk tolerance. He should have experience and knowledge to accurately supervise your investments. Someone who has counseled clients and experienced market fluctuations will never let you down. If your advisor has started, managed or owned a business, he/she will have experience that might benefit you. In some cases a formal educational background compensates for a lack of practical experience. But, in any case, it is important that a your advisor works in a team and has experts to fall back on.

Finally, find out if advisor has any complaints or disciplinary actions on file. For brokers and securities firms, call NASD’s Public Disclosure Hotline and to check on Registered Investment Advisors, call SEC’s Investor Education Hotline. Be careful that you don’t handover your hard earned money into unsafe hands. Above everything, use your own judgment. If you want your finances to flourish with time, it is essential that you choose right advisor.

9. What do you charge for your services? Do you work on a fee-only basis or a brokerage commission basis? Why?

10. How often do you meet your clients? Can you meet me once in three months? How receptive will you be to my queries that may arise at any time?

11. From what sources do you get new investment ideas? How do you keep abreast of market trends and swings? Do you have a team of experts to seek advice from?

12. How often do you re-evaluate your client’s financial portfolio? Will it be possible for you to provide me a quarterly assessment and advice regarding my financial portfolio?

13. Based on my needs and limitations, how do you plan to invest my money? Why do choose those investment options?

14. Have you ever filed for bankruptcy? Do you have any disciplinary action or complaints registered against you?

Always check your financial manager’s track record and client satisfaction level. Never go merely by his/her words. Remember that selecting your financial manager is much like selecting your doctor. If you want ‘sound health’ of your finances, select right manager. Never be afraid to ask questions and clear any doubt you might have, as finally its all about your money and your future.