Choosing a Financial Advisor Who Gets You

It’s about building a life you believe in.

That’s why choosing the right advisor is less about spreadsheets — and more about finding a partner who believes in your vision and walks with you to get there.

With so many options out there, how do you know who’s right for you?

 Understand What Kind of Advice You Need

Are you looking for help with:

• Personal budgeting and saving?

• Long-term retirement/risk planning?

• Business advice for your side hustle or SME?

• Short-term risk cover like house/car/content cover?

• Tax-smart investment planning?

Not every advisor specializes in everything — and that’s okay. Look for someone whose focus and experience align with your current stage of life or business.

 Check for Qualifications and Accreditation

In South Africa, a qualified advisor should:

• Be registered with the FSCA (Financial Sector Conduct Authority)

• Have a valid FSP (Financial Services Provider) number

• Be licensed to advise on the specific products they offer (e.g., life cover, short-term insurance, investments)

• Have the necessary qualifications (product-specific).

Tip: You can check representatives / Key individuals on the FSCA website — transparency is a green flag.

 Ask How They Get Paid

There’s no one-size-fits-all here — but you deserve to understand how your advisor earns:

• Commission-based: Often linked to product sales (e.g., insurance, investment funds)

• Fee-based: Flat-rate consultation fees or planning packages

• Hybrid: A mix of both

The important thing is honesty and clarity. You should never feel like advice is sales-driven or that you’re being pushed into something you don’t fully understand.

 Look for Someone Who Listens, Not Just Talks

You want a financial partner, not a lecturer.

In your first meeting, ask yourself:

• Do they ask good questions about your goals and values?

• Are they open to working with your current budget or situation?

• Do they explain things clearly?

The right advisor empowers you to understand your finances, not feel intimidated by them.

Make Sure It Feels Like a Fit

You’ll be sharing personal details about your life, your goals, and your worries. You should feel safe, respected, and supported — not rushed or judged.

It’s perfectly okay to meet with a few different advisors before deciding. Trust your gut and look for someone who:

• Follows up

• Speaks your language (literally and emotionally)

• Celebrates your small wins with you — not just your investment returns

 Ask for Client Testimonials or Referrals

Word of mouth still matters. Ask around — friends, colleagues, or other business owners — and don’t be afraid to request a few references. A great advisor will be proud to share the value they’ve added to real people’s lives.

 Finally, Choose Someone Who Cares About Quality of Life, Not Just ROI

The right financial advisor won’t just ask you about your income or retirement date. They’ll ask:

• What does a good life look like to you?

• What do you want your money to do for you?

• Do you want more time, more freedom, more peace?

 When you find someone who values quality of life as much as financial growth — that’s where magic happens. They’ll help you create a financial plan that works for the life you want, not the one you’re told to chase.

Your advisor should be someone who believes in:

• Rest, not just hustle

• Clarity over confusion

• Progress over perfection

• Building wealth that’s meaningful — not just measurable.

 Look for someone who gets that. Someone who gets you.