If you are looking to hire a financial security advisor like Robert Yancovitch, you should look at the process like hiring an employee. What’s the first thing you do to weed out potential candidates from those who simply don’t fit the bill? You look at their resume. Here’s what the resume of a financial security advisor worth hiring should look like. Even if you don’t see the person’s actual resume, these are the same types of things you should look and listen for when you interview a potential financial security advisor.
Objective
Under this headline, the financial security advisor should have key phrases such as “To help each client reach his financial goals through educated and experienced financial planning advice.” Steer clear of resumes that promise grand things such as “guaranteed financial success” or “no-fail advice.”
Education
Look for a financial security advisor whose resume includes a university degree in a related field as well as professional certification in financial planning. Find out which professional designations he has (is he a Certified financial security advisor?) Earning a professional designation is an indication that the financial security advisor has passed rigorous standardized tests that exhibits his ability to understand and apply the principles of his field.
A CMA designation is recognized around the world as an advanced-level credential earned by those in the financial business who have demonstrated professional expertise in areas such as financial planning, analysis, decision-making, and control as well as professional ethics. These are the hallmarks of a competent and knowledgeable financial security advisor.
Experience
Find out what kind of professional experience the financial security advisor has. Do they have any specializations? How long have they worked in the industry? Do they have experience in dealing with clients like you? Getting a clear picture of the level of experience a financial security advisor has will give you a good indication as to whether he is a good fit for you.
Employment history
Before hiring a financial security advisor such as Robert Yancovitch, find out about his employment, both past and present. Has he always worked for large corporations (and is he tied to a corporation now?) Has he always worked in an independent practice? Does he have partners or associates? This will give you good insight into the type of practice the financial security advisor works in, and whether you will be in a small fish in big pond, or whether your needs will get a higher level of personal attention.
Interpersonal skills
This is a very important section to which you should pay close attention. Look for words like patience, honesty, dedication, good communication skills, easily reachable, commitment to making clients feel comfortable and involved, etc. These skills are just as important as the financial security advisor’s education and professional experience. You do not want to work with an FO who makes you feel rushed, neglected, uncomfortable or who talks over your head with industry lingo and terms that you don’t understand, without taking the time to explain. When it comes to your money and investments, it’s important that you feel involved and that you understand what is going on.
Contact information
Ensure that the financial security advisor will be easily reachable. If you have questions or directives you’d like to give regarding your investments, you don’t want to have to put on your private detective’s hat to track down your financial security advisor.
