What happens at a first financial adviser meeting?
The first meeting should help both sides decide whether the relationship fits. It is not supposed to pressure you into signing immediately.
What is the first meeting for?
A first conversation normally helps the adviser understand why you are looking for help and gives you a chance to understand the firm, the adviser and the service. It may be relatively high level before a more detailed fact-find begins.
Use the meeting to test fit as well as competence. Ask who the adviser normally works with, whether your problem sits inside their usual specialism and what happens next if you decide to proceed.
What will the adviser ask?
When should fees be discussed?
Before you commit to paid advice, the charging basis and expected cost should be clear. Ask for the amount in pounds as well as any percentage and separate adviser fees from platform, fund or product charges.
Ask what you would pay in year one and what a normal ongoing year would cost.
Do you have to say yes in the meeting?
No. A useful first meeting should leave you with enough information to decide whether you want to continue. Comparing more than one adviser can be sensible when service, specialism or price differs materially.