What to Prepare Before a First Consultation
A first meeting with a financial adviser works better when you bring the right documents and the right questions. Here is what actually matters.
Most people arrive at a first consultation with a vague sense of what they want — "save more," "retire comfortably," "sort out my super." That is a fine starting point, but it does not give the adviser much to work with. The meeting becomes far more useful when you bring a few concrete items that let the adviser see your situation as it is, not as you remember it.
Start with your recent statements. That means bank accounts, superannuation, any managed funds, and a rough figure for your home loan or other debts. You do not need to print everything — a summary of balances and monthly contributions is enough. The point is to give the adviser a snapshot of your cash flow and what you are already putting away. If you are not sure where the money goes each month, a quick scan of the last three months of transactions will reveal it.
Next, think about your goals in plain terms. "I want to retire at 62 and travel for a few years" is more useful than "I want to be comfortable." The adviser needs a target to model against. If you have a partner, agree on the broad direction before the meeting so you are not negotiating in front of a stranger. It is also worth writing down any big expenses you expect in the next decade — a renovation, school fees, helping adult children with a deposit.
Finally, bring your questions. The best consultations are a two-way conversation. Ask how the adviser is paid, whether they work on commission or a flat fee, and how often they review your plan. Ask what happens if your circumstances change — a job loss, an inheritance, a health issue. A good adviser will welcome these questions; they are part of the job.
You do not need to prepare a perfect financial dossier. You just need to show up with the basics and a clear sense of what you want to learn. The rest of the meeting is about listening and deciding whether this person is the right fit for you. If you are still weighing whether to book a session at all, the next article covers the questions clients typically ask before starting.
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