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5 Reasons to see a Financial Planner

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Most people have a desire to seek financial independence and security, but many never really follow a plan to achieve it.

For some people, building a portfolio is too complex and confusing and they shy away from ever taking any concrete steps to building their wealth. Others may feel they can manage their own investment strategy by themselves, but will often end up making fundamental mistakes in either taking on too much risk, or missing opportunities to grow their wealth.

Using a financial planner can be a good way to remedy these issues and build a more effective financial plan with a minimum of fuss. Here are five reasons that may help you decide whether it is the right thing for you.

1. Understanding your plan

The defining feature of all good financial planners is that they never offer a solution until they fully understand the goals, desires and priorities of the person they are helping. It is only by making a thorough analysis of a person’s situation and objectives that this understanding can be achieved. Once the individual’s needs are identified a range of financial options are recommended to best meet them.

Expect your planner to conduct a needs analysis so that recommendations can be made to suit your particular goals.

2. Knowing what works and what doesn't

Financial planners are used to dealing with people in many different situations and at different stages of financial development. They have witnessed mistakes that people have made when they have tried to “go it alone” or have been haphazard in their approach to building financial security.

They have also seen the fruits of success when they have helped clients build effective wealth creation strategies. This invaluable experience can be applied to help you avoid the pitfalls and capitalise on the opportunities using tried and tested methods.

3. Qualifications

Financial planners need to meet strict professional standards with well-defined levels of qualification and must undertake ongoing education. This means their advice is well-informed, just like any other professional adviser, such as an accountant or solicitor.

Financial planners may also be a member of the Financial Planning Association, which means they must achieve and maintain levels of excellence in conduct and qualifications.

4. Comprehensive research resources

A key advantage that a financial planner can offer is the benefit of exhaustive research to back their recommendations. They have well-established links with investment research professionals who continually monitoring the latest market and product developments. This information is then used to make recommendations to their clients.

The planner will also have access to research from investment houses and fund managers to further enhance the advice they give. This level of highly sophisticated research is simply not available or accessible to the general public and is a critical component in underpinning the quality of advice you receive.

5. Ongoing review of your plan

The economic environment is in constant flux. Markets go through cycles and new investment products are continually being developed. This level of change means a financial plan needs an ongoing review in order to keep it relevant and in line with your goals. At the same time, your individual needs and priorities will inevitably change as you experience changes in areas of your life like employment, income, health and family circumstances.

A good financial planner will set out a system of review so that all of these changes are monitored and your plan is adjusted to suit.

A long term relationship

Seeking the help of a financial planner is not simply a one-off event for a quick fix. It is a relationship which can last a lifetime to help build your wealth, protect you in times of unexpected misfortune and eventually help you to enjoy a comfortable retirement lifestyle.

Take the next step

To discuss your financial situation, make an appointment with a Bridges financial planner. We have an established alliance with Bridges, to provide our customers with financial advice. Bridges has been helping Australians with financial advice for 30 years.

A Bridges financial planner will develop a plan specifically for you; one that’s tailored to your needs and circumstances to help you achieve your goals. To make an appointment with our Bridges financial planner, Edward Brown, call (02) 6362 4466. The initial consultation is complimentary and obligation free.

Things you should know:

^{Edward Brown: Authorised Representative’s Number, issued by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission: 263910}

^{Credit unions have been referring their members to Bridges since 1985. To find out more about Bridges, Bridges website or call us on (02) 6362 4466 to arrange a free, no-obligation appointment with a Bridges financial planner near you.}

^{By referring you to Bridges Financial Services Pty Ltd (ABN 60 003 474 977 ASX Participant. AFSL Number 240837, Part of the IOOF Group), Orange Credit Union is eligible to receive commission from your transactions with Bridges. This commission may range from 0% to 30% of the entry fee, and similar amounts for any on-going fees. In referring members to Bridges, Orange Credit Union does not accept responsibility for any acts, omissions or advice of Bridges and its authorised representatives.}

^{This is general advice only and has been prepared without taking into account your particular objectives, financial situation and needs. Before making an investment decision based on this information, you should assess your own circumstances or consult a financial planner or a registered tax agent.}

^{Examples are illustrative only and are subject to the assumptions and qualifications disclosed.}

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