1. Know why you are hiring a financial advisor - what services the fees will cover, what your goals are - both short term and long term, how they can help you achieve your financial goals.

2. Actively seek out a financial advisor through your own initiative rather than through the advisor's marketing efforts.  Do not wait for a random sales pitch over the phone or for a "welcome to the area" letter.  Do your homework - ask your attorney, ask others with a similar financial picture, seek out options available in your community.

3. Give yourself more than one choice.  Schedule consultations with at least three potential planners to determine the best fit for you.  Choose carefully.  Be sure that the advisor is neither desperate to make a quota nor pompous in his attitude toward you.

4. Be prepared for your first consultation.  The first hour with a financial planner is usually free, so use this time wisely.  Have all important paperwork with you so you can present a concise summary of your financial picture.  You will then have extra time to become fully informed about the service you can expect.

5. Ask questions.  What is your comfort level in sharing your thoughts and expectations?  Does the advisor give clear answers, or does he cloud his answers with technical language that you find difficult to understand?  Is he cooperative in his willingness to explain the details to you in more user-friendly terminology?

6. Look for certification of his credentials.  Check his licenses and continuing-education units of credit.  The title "Financial Planner" can be used by anyone and is not a guarantee of adequate education or ethics. 

7. Understand all documents before you sign them.  NEVER write out a check directly to the planner for products, services, or investments.  If you decide to sign a "discretionary authority", be aware that this will give the advisor permission to buy and sell investments without consulting you first.

8. Be sure the financial planner is focused on your basic financial status first!  Cash flow and insurance are the fundamentals in building a sound financial foundation.  Investments should be added to the structure after the basic foundation is solid.  Be cautious about a planner who focuses on a high level of stock activity, without regard for other options.  He may only be interested in lining his pockets with commission income at your expense

9. You are paying for financial advice.  Put it into practice!  If it does not make sense to you, ask for clarification.  If it seems like sound advice, act immediately.  Financial advice is time sensitive, so it is vitally important to follow the advice without delay.