Focus on the qualifications, experience and integrity of the adviser, not the investments and products they sell.
Begin by saying you are comparing different advisers and you plan to make notes. To help you understand how they can help, invite an adviser to provide in writing, answers to your questions.
To maintain control of the interview, continue to ask questions that let you compare and choose the right person.
Get the adviser to do most of the talking but also keep them focussed on the task at hand. To do this, ask open questions like "what experience do you have?", while avoiding questions with 'yes' or 'no' answers. And never be afraid to ask additional questions if you don't understand an adviser's answer - this will help you make an informed choice.
Only provide basic information about yourself and your goals. Avoid specifics about your finances or investments. Should this occur, the best response is: 'I am still looking for the right adviser. So let's talk more about your services and experience'.
Take it as a bad sign if an adviser pushes you to sign up as a client there and then. Refuse politely and continue your interview. Remember you are considering the merits of various advisers, not who comes armed with the best sale pitch.
The Financial Standard Investment Leadership Awards recognise investment strategies that showcase qualities investors are looking for in an investment manager. What makes these awards different from others? ... Watch video
Fund of the Year AustralianSuper Best in Show - MySuper Lifecycle Sunsuper for life Best in Show - MySuper Product AustralianSuper Best in Show - Workplace UniSuper Best in Show - Personal AustralianSuper ... Watch video
AFCA forced into rule change22 January 2021, 11:57amThe Australian Financial Complaints Authority has been forced into a rule change regarding its jurisdiction over authorised representatives after a court decision. Read more
TAL continues successful FASEA course21 January 2021, 12:07pmLife insurer TAL has launched another round of its FASEA exam masterclass, which aims to prep financial advisers for the exam. Read more
ASIC bans former IOOF, MLC adviser20 January 2021, 12:19pmA former financial adviser was banned after it was revealed he was not adequately trained, despite working in the industry for nearly 15 years. Read more