Finding the Right Financial Professional
You cannot purchase Old Mutual products directly. Whether it's an investment product or
insurance, you must work with a
financial professional
to acquire any of our innovative financial products. So the question remains: How do
I find the professional who's right for me?
Finding the Right Insurance Agent for You
Life insurance and annuities can be extremely complicated. Depending on your family's
financial situation and needs, there may be several options to choose from. A good
insurance agent can help you decide which policy will fill those needs. Choosing
the right insurance agent can make the process easier.
Captive vs. Independent - It's important to understand that there are different types
of agents. Captive agents sell only one company's insurance products. Independent
agents represent multiple companies and are able to combine coverages to meet your
needs and offer a wider range of coverages. Old Mutual products are only available
through independent agents.
Pedigree
In some ways, finding the right insurance agent is just like choosing any other
professional service. It's important to check an agent's credentials and experience.
There are many industry designations that represent an agent's level of professionalism and
demonstrate a strong professional commitment.
The Personal Touch
The right insurance agent should show an understanding of your needs and that your
interests are their priority. A mark of a good agent is whether they ask a lot of
questions concerning you and your insurance needs. They also should be able to
carefully explain policy details, including limitations and exclusions.
Do Your Homework
You may also want to contact the Better Business Bureau®
for a list of insurance agents who have had complaints filed against them and use your
state's Department of Insurance to verify an agent's license. And referrals from other
clients are always a good idea.
Finding the Right Financial Advisor for You
Think of choosing the right financial advisor as just as important as choosing the right
financial investment. He or she is truly your first investment, and the one that all
the others depend on. When deciding on who to trust with your time and money, there
are a few qualities to look for.
Experience
Clearly, experience in the market should be your first consideration when looking for a
qualified advisor. It's important to understand that with market fluctuations, sometimes
sticking with a plan may be the best strategy, but other times a change of plan may be
required. Only an experienced advisor may know the difference.
The Customer Comes First
In an age where customer service may seem like an oxymoron, it is vital in financial
services. Ask your prospective advisor about how they can assure you that your account
will be given the personal and individual attention you deserve. Ask about how long
it takes to return phone calls, and if any clients have left because of customer
service-related issues. While it may seem trivial now, it won't be when your advisor
holds the keys to your financial future.
Just Ask
Of course, you can ask the financial advisor for referrals from existing clients.
And there's always the option of asking friends or colleagues to refer you to an
advisor with whom they've had a good experience or relationship.
Credentials
As a rule, an advisor should be licensed and have a well-established client base.
And it doesn't hurt to ask whether they are a member of a financial planners association;
as these associations often require minimum educational standards in order to join.
