Top 4 Things to Know Before You Start Investing

The most common thing I hear when I ask people why they have not started investing is that they don’t know how or where to start.  Here are 4 easy things to get you going!

4. Make sure you feel comfortable with your financial professional

Just like researching a major purchase, you should feel satisfied with your choice of financial professional.  It is important to ensure they mesh well with you and have the same vision for how to achieve your goals.  Meeting with a financial professional should feel easy and comfortable, not scary or intimidating.  

3. Have all of your information in one spot

Although your first meeting will likely be introductory in nature, you should have all of your documentation prepared and ready to go.  Important figures to have handy usually include annual income, net worth, other investments (including your 401(k) or other employee retirement plan) and amount of any debt you carry.  At some point during the account opening process you may be asked some personal questions as well, including driver’s license information and employment details.

2. It’s never too early or too late to start

If you are reading this and have never met with a financial professional, now is a great time to start.  No amount of money is too small to begin accumulating some growth.  Think about it like this – wouldn’t your future self be so thankful that you set aside an amount for later in life?

1. You don’t have to know everything

When you go to the salon, the stylist doesn’t expect you to mix your own hair color and apply the foils.  Likewise, a financial professional’s job is to help you with your financial goals and investments so you don’t have to do it yourself.  You are paying somebody to provide a service to you!  I would encourage you to ask questions during meetings with your financial professional about topics or investments you do not understand, as they will happily explain things to you. 

Give me a call if you’re ready to get started, I’m excited to join you on your journey!