How Do You Know We Are a Good Fit?

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These shared principles mean shared success

“Craig, you said that one of the things Warren Buffet looks for is someone he enjoys spending time with. How do you know whether it is going to work out when you meet a new advisor?” asked Mr. Edelman, a retired CEO.

That’s a very good question. Here’s what I know: there must be a good fit for the long-term success. While you are evaluating an advisor for a good fit, they must be evaluating you as well. We reviewed our most enduring relationships and have identified Seven Key Characteristics shared by our clients and ourselves:

 

1.  They Live Their Life by Principles

Principles like honesty, integrity, and hard work – to name just a few – are the foundation of everything that they do. They do not sacrifice principles for results … the ends never justify the means.

2.  They Know the Value of a Dollar

Smith, a retired NY manufacturer, said it best to me: “Every dollar that I have is valuable to me. It came by the sweat of my brow and I risked everything I owned to start this business and keep it running. I don’t want to pay one more dollar in taxes than I am required.”

3.  They Believe Wealth is More than Money

They know that True Wealth has many dimensions … including the personal, social, spiritual, human, and intellectual capital. They believe all wealth is worth managing.

“Relationships are more important than my money. Of course, I want to have enough to secure my lifestyle, but I want to positively impact my family and my community,” confided Ms. Gold, a long-time widow.

4.  They Are Open to New Ideas

They know there is no monopoly on ideas, no corner on creativity; therefore, they approach new ideas with an open mind. Many have a reasonable plan and good advisors … yet, they are open to move to the next level.

5.  They Know that Strategy Helps Outperform Tactics

Their experience has taught them the value of strategy first: aim before you fire. Even though strategy requires more time up front, it can pay off in the long run.

6.  They Know What They Do Well

By implication, they know what they don’t do well.

“I tried the do-it-yourself route with my money. What a Disaster! I know enough to be dangerous … besides, I can make more money with my time than it costs to delegate,” shared Mr. Liebowitz, a business owner who recently converted the wealth in his business to cash.

7.  They Care about Value and Quality

They agree with John Ruskin, who said, “There is hardly anything in the world that some man cannot make a little worse and sell a little cheaper, and the people who consider price only are this man’s lawful prey.”

They hire, respect, and reward talented retirement planning professionals … and desire win-win relationships with people they enjoy.

These Seven Key Characteristics have been the foundation for every enduring relationship we have, and we look for them in everyone we work with… whether retired professionals, business owners, or women on their own.

Craig Kirsner, MBA, is a nationally-recognized Author, Speaker, and Retirement Planner. You can reach him at 1-800-807-5558.

Article content provided by Scott Keffer. Investment advisory services offered only by duly registered individuals through AE Wealth Management, LLC (AEWM). AEWM and Stuart Estate Planning Wealth Advisors are not affiliated companies. Neither the firm nor its representatives may give tax or legal advice. Investing involves risk, including the potential loss of principal. 585755

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