Dig up dirt on potential advisers
Once you know which credentials you’re looking for, make a list of potential candidates. From there, put your investigation cap on and research each candidate’s track record. Start by digging up unbiased client reviews from around the web. Take testimonials on an adviser’s website with a grain of salt. You can also check for formal complaints against an adviser with regulatory bodies like the Security and Exchange Commission (SEC), the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) and CFP Board. After narrowing your options, it’s time to meet them. Remember that you’re going to be discussing sensitive financial details with your adviser for years to come, so it’s important that you trust them and feel comfortable talking openly and honestly with them about personal matters.