Working with a Stafford Thorpe Advisor should be simple and straightforward.
- You should feel comfortable talking with your advisor.
- We make the process as smooth as possible.
- After initial discussions, expect a clear picture of next steps and the ongoing process.
Personal Connection
You may have some of your most important talks with your investment advisor. They need to get to know you as a person, not just as a client. Your advisor must understand your needs to help you reach your goals. Speak up, ask questions and listen. Remember that talking with your investment advisor is not a one-time conversation. It’s an ongoing dialogue about your life and balancing day-to-day requirements with long-term aspirations.
Setting the Stage
Here are some suggestions for cultivating a positive connection and laying the groundwork for working together to achieve your goals.
Share your goals and ambitions. Be specific about what you want and when you want it. Talk about what you’re willing to sacrifice to achieve your goals, and what you aren’t. Discuss any financial obstacles or challenges that may affect your ability to attain your goals.
Set expectations. For the advisor-client relationship to be successful, both parties must actively listen and hear one another. In addition, from the outset, advisors and clients should determine how frequently they wish to be in touch, and how best to communicate – by email, phone, or in person.
Next steps. When meeting or communicating, agree on next steps. Your doctor or dentist normally schedules a follow-up appointment; your investment advisor should do the same. In addition to organizing your next discussion, your advisor should use easy-to-understand language. Make sure you grasp everything you discussed. If not, speak up.
Keep your advisor up to date. Unexpected events can affect your investments. Inform your advisor of life changes, such as births, deaths, job changes, marriages, and divorces, as soon as possible, not just at scheduled meetings. Life is full of twists and turns, and you want your advisor giving you the best possible guidance.
