1. What types of clients do you work with?

While most of my clients are company executives and attorneys, I do work with a wide range of clients, from HENRY's just starting out on their financial journey (High Earners Not Rich Yet) to retirees who are finished with the accumulation phase of investing and now are focused on letting their portfolio work for them for once. I recognize that's a busy way of saying "pretty much everybody."

2. What is your track record?

No advisor can or should promise financial results. And beware of those who do. What I can assure you of is an appropriate allocation based on your goals, accumulations, risk tolerance, and timeline in question - and that you and I will have regular contact to review whether we're on track.

3. What will our relationship be like — how often will we connect?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, but essentially as often as you feel comfortable. An advisor should be committed to communicating with you in person, by phone or online — whatever your preference is — as often as you require. Every client has different needs and expectations. Don’t be shy. Be upfront about how frequently and by what means you would like to get together to discuss your finances. Some people prefer a more formal relationship with regularly scheduled meetings, while others might be more comfortable with a less structured, more relaxed approach. Make your personal preferences known from the outset. Remember, I work for you.

4. How can you help me stay on track as I pursue my goals?

To have the potential to realize your goals, you have to clearly define them first. Even if you have a pretty clear idea of what you want to accomplish with your money, our conversations should help you better understand and prioritize how you might get there, including helping you recognize any trade-offs you may need to make based on your finances, time horizon, risk tolerance, cash flow needs and investing preferences. Life has a way of changing too — sometimes without notice — and I encourage you to check in whenever your situation changes so that you can discuss any course adjustments you might consider to help you stay on the right track.

5. Can we discuss investment choices that align to my values and are appropriate for my situation?

The choices you make every day — from where you choose to eat to the companies you choose to invest in — can be a reflection of your deeply held beliefs. I can suggest investments that take your values and best interests into account — whether your concerns are about the environment, social responsibility or corporate governance. These investments should also be vetted with the same rigor as other more traditional choices so that they are aligned with your other investments.

6. Will you call me if the markets are volatile?

One word: Yes. When the markets get scary, there’s nothing worse than feeling isolated and alone. One of my most vital functions is to reach out to you at such times, hear your concerns, offer perspective and talk about whether you should consider any adjustments to your financial strategy.

7. How do I pay you for your work — and how much will it cost?

It’s never an easy question to ask, but advisors should always be upfront on this. Merrill's Investment Advisory Program charges a fee based on assets with us, and the larger our relationship, the more my fee steps down. I will tell you candidly those percentages on our first call. As for how they are charged, allocations typically have a small dedicated to some cash, and fees are billed from there.