How to Get the Most Out of Working with a Financial Planner

​Working with a financial planner can be one of the most important decisions you make for your financial well-being. They help you make sense of your financial situation today and prepare for tomorrow’s goals. But how do you ensure you’re getting the most out of the process? This guide explores what financial planners do, what to consider before meeting one, how to choose the right professional, and the types of life events where planning becomes especially valuable.

What Does a Financial Planner Do?

At its core, a financial planner’s role is to create a roadmap for your money. This can include:

• Retirement Planning – designing a long-term income plan.
• Investment Planning – building a portfolio that balances growth and risk.
• Tax Strategies – structuring accounts to minimize taxes over time.
• Insurance Planning – reviewing protection needs for individuals and families.
• Cash Flow and Budgeting – helping manage spending and savings effectively.

Certified Financial Planners like Tara Downs Rocchetti, CFP® take a holistic view, looking at both numbers and life goals so the plan reflects what really matters to you.

What Should I Think About Before Meeting a Financial Planner?

It helps to reflect on a few areas before your first meeting:

• Your short- and long-term goals.
• Your current financial picture—income, assets, debts.
• The concerns keeping you up at night (retirement, taxes, mortgages, or education costs).
• Your priorities—what needs attention right now, and what can wait.

Tara will guide you through this. You don’t need everything perfectly organized—clarity grows as you talk it through.

What Should I Look at When Choosing a Financial Planner?

Key factors to consider include:

• Credentials: CFP® designation ensures they meet the regulatory standards of financial planning certification in Canada.
• Compensation: There are varying types of compensation based on who you decide to work with
• Experience: Look for someone familiar with your stage of life or profession.
• Planning Philosophy: Do they focus on investments only, or a full financial picture?
• Fit: This is a long-term relationship—comfort and trust are essential.

Major Life Change Considerations

Financial planning often becomes most valuable during transitions such as:

• Buying or selling a home
• Starting a new job or receiving a promotion
• Receiving an inheritance
• Business succession planning
• Divorce or separation
• Caring for aging parents
• Retirement planning
• Birth of a child or grandchild

Financial Planners like Tara Down Rocchetti, help you weigh your options, test scenarios, and bring a steady perspective when life feels uncertain.

The Benefits of Using a Financial Planner

​Working with a professional brings several benefits:

• Clarity – seeing your entire financial picture.
• Accountability – staying on track with goals.
• Expertise – using proven strategies for investments, taxes, and protection.
• Peace of Mind – confidence that you’re preparing for the future.
• Time Savings – freeing yourself from trying to manage it all alone.

Even experienced DIY investors often turn to financial planners for support.

How to Prepare for Your First Meeting

To get the most out of your first session, gather:

• Recent tax returns
• Investment and bank statements
• Insurance policies
• Mortgage and debt details
• Your budget (income and expenses)
• A list of top goals and concerns

Planners like Tara Downs Rocchetti often remind clients: you don’t need everything perfect. The goal is to start the conversation.

What Might You Ask For?

During the planning process, you might ask a planner to:

• Show retirement income projections
• Review investments for risk alignment
• Suggest tax-efficient strategies
• Evaluate insurance needs
• Balance retirement savings with education costs
• Model financial “what if” scenarios, such as buying a home or receiving an inheritance

Questions to Ask a Certified Financial Planner

​To make sure you’ve found the right fit, consider:

• What is your planning philosophy?
• How are you compensated?
• What type of clients do you usually work with?
• How often will we review my plan?
• What tools will I have to track progress?

These questions help ensure the relationship is transparent and supportive.

What to Consider for the Long Term

​Financial planning isn’t a one-time event. A strong relationship evolves as your life changes. Most people review plans annually or after big milestones. A good financial planner provides flexibility, perspective, and a process that grows with you.

​Getting the best out of a financial planner is about preparation, openness, and ongoing communication. By reflecting on your goals, choosing someone whose approach aligns with your values, you’ll ensure your plan continues to serve you over time.
Professionals like Tara Downs Rocchetti, CFP® provide financial planning with a focus on helping clients align money with life. Whether you’re preparing for retirement, managing a career change, or navigating family transitions, thoughtful planning can help you move forward with confidence.

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