5 hints for finding a good financial advisor
By Roland Manarin

It's a question the vast majority of Americans face: Do you "go it alone" to plan your financial future, investments, and savings plans — or do you get the help of an expert to guide you through the process and ensure you get the most bang for your buck?

Increasingly, most of us choose to seek professional help. But to whom do you turn to and trust?

Here are five hints to pick a good financial advisor:

1. Good financial professionals 'cook their bacon' with yours. If they feel strongly about an investment, they should have their own money there. Be wary of those who don't take their own advice.

2. A good advisor finds out about your goals. Most financial professionals give advice slanted against true wealth-building principles. Most offer advice that is simply a repetition of what they've been taught.

Successful long-term investment advice is not a "shoot from the hip" proposition. A sound understanding of the big picture — taking into account your personal goals and not the agenda of the financial professional — is essential.

3. Not all financial professionals are good investors. Most often, they make their money by selling you something; not by being successful investors themselves.

4. Big names aren't everything. Many big-name firms only allow their salespeople to sell you products that the firm puts on its shelf. You want someone who can offer you anything on the planet.

5. A good advisor is a teacher. When considering a financial professional, ask yourself, "Is this person trying to teach me something or trying to sell me something?"

Look for someone who is willing to teach you, regardless of whether you invest with them or not.

Roland Manarin is president of Manarin Investment Counsel, Ltd., an independent, fee-based investment advisory group registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission. He can be reached by e-mail at rmanarin@manarin.com or through his company's Web site, www.manarin.com.