Getting Started
Whilst each client is different and has different requirements, needs and wants we have a general 5 step process when we deal with our clients.
Discovery Interview
This is our initial meeting with you which we classify as a “Get to you know” meeting. We want to know more about you and you want to know more about us and we believe that in order to build a long term relationship you have to be comfortable with us and we have to be comfortable with you.
In this meeting we also clearly explain and document the services that we can provide to you and define both our and your responsibilities during the financial planning engagement. We explain fully how we will be paid. After gathering some information about you we may discuss big picture concepts with you. Following this meeting we will provide you with an “Initial Advice Agreement” or “Engagement Letter” which sets out what we will advise you on based on your wants and needs.
Engagement & Planning Meeting
After our initial meeting and you signing the “Initial Advice Agreement” we have our full fact find meeting to gather all the relevant data and information that we will need to provide you with our advice and recommendations. This is where we get into detail about your financial situation. We mutually define your personal and financial goals, understand your time frame for results and discuss, if relevant, how you feel about risk. This meeting is done in order to gather all the necessary documents before giving you the advice you need.
Advice Work
The next step is for us to analyse your information to assess your current situation and determine what you must do to meet your goals. Depending on what services you have asked for, this could include analysing your assets, liabilities and cash flow, current insurance coverage, superannuation, investments or tax strategies.
We then present our recommendations that address your goals, based on the information you provide in a document called a “Statement of Advice”. We go over the recommendations with you to help you understand them so that you can make informed decisions. We also listen to your concerns, if any, and revise the recommendations as appropriate.
Implementation
The next step is to agree on how the recommendations will be implemented. We generally carry out the recommendations and/or serve as your “coach”, coordinating the process with you and other professionals such as lawyers, accountants or stockbrokers where needed.
Review
We then agree on who will monitor your progress towards your goals. In most instances we are in charge of the process, and we will report to you periodically to review your situation and adjust the recommendations, if needed, as your life changes.