As a business owner, I firmly believe in the wisdom of investing now to save later, which is why I turn to a financial adviser. Many experts affirm that businesses working alongside financial advisors are best equipped to navigate economic downturns. With their guidance, I can plan for and mitigate risks, as well as optimize cash flow, setting the stage for long-term success.
Furthermore, if I find myself pondering questions like where to invest, when to acquire a financial product, or how to Sell my Business, it’s a clear sign that seeking the expertise of a financial expert can significantly enhance my chances of success.
If you’re interested in working with a financial advisor, here’s an article that can help you find the right one with minimal hassle:
What does a financial adviser do?
A 2019 consumer survey revealed that over a third of Americans don’t understand what financial advisers do, a figure that rises more in the Millennial segment of the population. Let’s help to overcome that knowledge gap; financial advisers take a deep dive into your finances and every aspect from investments to income.
Financial advisers play a crucial role in a company’s financial conditions by conducting comprehensive assessments of their finances. This assessment encompasses a wide range of financial aspects, including investments, income, pensions, mortgages, and even college funds. The primary reasons companies seek out financial advisers are typically twofold: saving money and ensuring compliance with relevant financial regulations.
Once financial advisers have gathered a thorough understanding of their clients’ current financial situations and overall financial health, they can offer guidance and recommendations. These recommendations may cover various aspects of financial management, including investment strategies, retirement planning, mortgage decisions, and even Insurance Audits to ensure there are no discrepancies in a company’s insurance coverage.
Where can I find the best financial advisers?
The best financial adviser is the one that’s right for you. Generally speaking, advisers and planners will possess a specialism, whether this is demographic (e.g. retiree advisers), geographical (e.g. local advisers) or economic (e.g. insurance planning advisers). Your choice will depend on these factors.
A great starting place when looking for a financial adviser you can trust, is among your very own friends and family. As a business, it’s worth looking to similar-sized operations in your area and niche (especially any primary competitors). If it’s worked for them, it could work for you. Business owners may even consider an in-house candidate via financial adviser recruitment agencies to interface with their finance teams.
Questions to ask
Always ask would-be advisers the following questions to determine if they’re the right fit for you:
- Are you an independent or restricted adviser?
- What are your qualifications?
- How will you offer the advice?
- Are you authorized?
What other factors should I consider?
Often, financial advisers will offer an initial consultation at zero cost. But pricing thereafter will vary. They many charge you:
- An hourly rate: bear in mind this is not just for time spent consulting as this will also cover their audit work and product research. Make sure you get a breakdown of the work they’ve done for you.
- A percentage fee: you can pay anywhere from 0.1%-10% for each year your financial adviser manages your money, so make sure you ask.
- Fixed rate: a flat fee may cover a specific project. If you’re looking for one-off advice, this could be the way to go.
Can I afford not to?
The best financial planners don’t only allow you to turn a profit on investment. They’ll also help you achieve your goals, avoid unnecessary risk and save money on major financial decisions throughout your lifetime.
