Choosing Professionals
When it comes time to important matters such as estate planning, it is essential to have all of the information that you need to make informed decisions. In deciding how best to plan for and implement your wishes, you will benefit from the knowledge and experience of professionals from many fields: attorneys, accountants, financial advisors, realtors, trust officers, and case managers. Each profession adds services that will support you. Your job is to assemble the team that will best serve your needs, one that informs you and implements your wishes.
How do you go about choosing the proper experts for you? It is natural to feel intimidated or confused about choosing your professionals. After all, most of us do not have many occasions where we need to choose such professionals. We worry about whether we have made the right choice. This article is intended to give you the structures to simplify that process, and provide you with real choices.
Where do I find them?
Well, there is always the telephone directory. For many professions the directory will organize individuals by different categories. However, the directory's limitation is that it does not provide information such as experience and background. Some professional societies also provide rosters of their members. This can be useful to find qualified people with a commitment to their profession.
The best way to find a possible match is through referrals and personal contact. Ask your friends what their experience has been with their advisors. What are the strengths and weaknesses of that professional? How did they work, and were your friends satisfied? Often a professional will work harder when they know that a person came to them from a valued client.
How do I interview them?
Regardless of how you locate a professional, always interview them in person. You are the greatest expert on your life. Only you will know whether a professional is the right fit for having your needs addressed. Notice how well they listen to you. Do they really hear what you are telling them? Are they asking the right questions to help you get informed? What distinguishes them from everybody else, and does that fit your needs?
Notice whether they are speaking with you, rather than at you. Are they effective in communicating and having the empathy to really address your wishes? Do they speak in a way that is readily understandable? Ask for referrals from their clients and follow up with them.
Consider interviewing more
than one choice. Without knowing your alternatives, you will
not appreciate that you chose rather than "settled for"
an individual. By interviewing more than one person, you will
gain a greater appreciation of each person's qualities and
skills. It is reasonable to ask for an interview without being
charged for it. It should not cost money to have a "get
to know meeting." Make sure that you are clear about
the costs of services and billing procedures. Get a written
fee agreement.
It is your life. You are in charge. You have the right to have your needs met. If things aren't working for you, be sure to speak up about what is missing and what you need. People in service-oriented professions are there to serve. Give them the privilege of working for you!
