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Data & Research April 14, 2011
Low Fees Not a Priority When Shopping for Adviser
Being knowledgeable and trustworthy are the most important factors people consider when searching for a financial adviser, the First Command Financial Behaviors Index found.
Reported by Nicole Bliman
In a recent survey of middle-class Americans who work with a financial planner, three quarters of respondents picked “knowledgeable” and “trustworthy” as the most important attributes they seek in a planner. “Honest” came in third at 70%.
The First Command Financial Behaviors Index is conducted monthly to assess financial behaviors and attitudes among Americans. This month’s survey found that the top ten attributes consumers look for in a financial adviser are:
- Knowledgeable (75%)
- Trustworthy (74%)
- Honest (70%)
- Many years of experience (59%)
- Willing to listen (52%)
- Positive word of mouth or referral (51%)
- Confident (48%)
- Personal Relationship (46%)
- Understanding (44%)
- Patient (34%)
Notably, the cost of advisory services did not make the top ten. Just three out of ten respondents picked “low price for services” as the most important attribute to look for in an adviser.
“Financial planning is not a commodity that consumers shop for based on price,” said Scott Spiker, CEO of First Command Financial Services. “Rather, it is a profession built on personal relationships with people you trust. Consumers are willing to pay for planning services when they feel the planner has the technical know-how and the moral fiber to help them pursue their long-term financial goals and lifetime dreams.”