Melissa George discusses Selecting the Right Financial Planner
Listen to the interview on the Business Innovators Radio Network: https://businessinnovatorsradio.com/interview-with-melissa-george-founder-ceo-of-investher-fiduciary-solutions-selecting-the-right-financial-planner/
Melissa George, founder and CEO of InvestHer Fiduciary Solutions. They delve into the critical topic of selecting the right financial planner. Melissa emphasizes the importance of not relying solely on quick online searches or recommendations from friends and family. Instead, she advocates for a thorough vetting process to find a planner who can genuinely guide through a financial journey. Listeners will learn key considerations and tips for researching financial professionals, including understanding the credentials and qualifications that can impact their financial future.
When selecting a financial planner, conducting thorough research and asking specific questions is crucial to ensure they align with your financial goals and adhere to fiduciary standards. While the process of finding the right financial planner can be daunting, taking the time to vet potential advisors can lead to a more secure financial future.
Many individuals begin their search for a financial planner online or by seeking recommendations from friends and family. While these methods can provide a starting point, it’s essential to go beyond surface-level information. Researching the credentials and background of potential planners is vital, including understanding the various professional licenses and designations they may hold, as these can indicate their level of expertise and specialization.
Once people have a shortlist of potential financial planners, engaging them in an interview process is important. Melissa George, the founder and CEO of InvestHer Fiduciary Solutions, suggests asking specific questions to gauge their qualifications and approach. Here are a few critical questions to consider:
- What professional licenses and designations do you have? This helps to understand their qualifications and areas of expertise.
- Are you or your firm licensed and registered with the state, SEC (Securities & Exchange Commission), or FINRA (Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, Inc.)? Ensuring they are properly registered provides a layer of security.
- How do you mitigate conflicts of interest in your practice? This question addresses the fiduciary standard, which requires advisors to act in the best interest of their clients.
- Can anyone besides you benefit from the recommendations? This question helps uncover any potential kickbacks or conflicts of interest.
- What happens if I need to end our professional relationship? Understanding any penalties or fees associated with terminating the relationship is crucial.
- Can I have it in writing? Requesting written documentation ensures clarity and accountability.
Melissa shared: “We start with transparency and education to build custom financial plans that ensure our clients make informed decisions and can Retire with Confidence”
It’s essential to differentiate between the suitability standard and the fiduciary standard. The suitability standard means that the advice given is appropriate for the client, while the fiduciary standard requires that the advice is also in the best interest of the client. Melissa emphasizes that as a fiduciary, she prioritizes her clients’ interests above her own, ensuring that recommendations are not only suitable but also beneficial for the client’s financial well-being.
A good financial planner will not only provide advice but will also educate their clients. This empowerment allows clients to make informed decisions about their financial futures. Melissa highlights that an educated client is more likely to feel confident in their choices and is also more likely to refer others to the planner, creating a win-win situation.
About Melissa George
Melissa George is a seasoned financial expert, renowned for her mastery in financial planning, insurance, and investment strategies, specifically tailored for small business proprietors. With nearly thirty years of proven excellence in the field, Melissa has refined her ability to craft comprehensive plans that perfectly align with her client’s aspirations and objectives.
As a trusted advisor, Melissa prioritizes protecting her client’s financial well-being. Notably, she is the first woman of color to achieve the prestigious CERTIFIED FINANCIAL FIDUCIARY® designation, operating under the utmost standards of integrity, confidentiality, and diligence. At the helm of InvestHER Fiduciary Solutions for the past 18 years, Melissa has guided her clients to financial prosperity, enabling them to RETIRE WITH CONFIDENCE.
Melissa’s academic background includes a BBA from Georgia State University, complemented by a series of professional accreditations including ACCREDITED INVESTMENT FIDUCIARY®, CERTIFIED FUND SPECIALIST®, and FINRA® Arbitrator. Additionally, she is a Goldman Sachs One Million Black Women Business Scholar.
Beyond her professional achievements, Melissa is deeply engaged in various professional and community organizations, including AAAFA (Association of African American Financial Advisors), NAWOSB (National Association of Women-Owned Small Businesses), United Way VIP Alumni, Board Chair of Girls Inc of Greater Atlanta, and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc
Learn More: https://www.investherfiduciarysolutions.com/
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