This made me wonder why people go to advisors who are not qualified to advice- with their hard earned money. Then it becomes a case of your guess is as good as his and you pray with all your heart that his is the right guess or you lose all your money.

Here are a few reasons why your financial advisor/planner should be qualified:

1. A qualified planner offers a personalised solution after assessing your unique situation and needs.

2. He plans after considering your long-term and your short-term goals.

3. He places your interest ahead of his.

4. He forces you to set your goals before you plan investments.

5. He recommends products that suit your needs and forces you to invest money rather than spending it on weekend shopping.

6. He pushes you for that much needed insurance cover that you have been procrastinating for so long.

7. He does not sell every product that is available in the market and at times even discourages you to buy a product, which seems attractive to you because it does not suit your appetite or portfolio.

If you agree with the above points there is no doubt that you will not go to a broker with your hard earned money, but visit a CFP (Certified Financial Planner) and trust him not only with your money but with your money related problems and phobias. You have to trust the financial planner as much as you trust your doctor or lawyer. You have to keep the long-term goals in mind before investing.

So the next time your friend tells you that he made a killing in the market based on some 'inside' tips, just smile and think: 'Slow and steady wins the race'.

Money Matters Mantras:

• Enquire about the Planner's qualifications
  
• If you do not feel convinced with the Planner, quit the relationship
  
• Trust him with your finances and share all your phobias
  
• It is a long-term commitment
  
• Learn about your investments
  
• Include your spouse also in the Money Management exercise

Author: Lovaii Navlakhi
(Certified Financial Planner and MD of International Money Matters Pvt Ltd.)