The first thing to do in the financial planning process that I suggest, is that we meet together. If you live close to Brooks, Alberta this can then be done in person. (It also gives us an opportunity to play golf.)

If you live quite a ways away, and getting to Brooks isn't high on your priority list, then we should meet through e-mail or fax. Then, if all goes well, we can decide to arrange a telephone interview.

As we meet, you will have the opportunity to judge first hand whether or not you want to do business with me. I also will have that same opportunity. After all, neither of us wants to work with someone we will be miserable with. Choosing and trusting someone to help you with your personal and business finances is not easy. Allow me to say that I invest my clients money as carefully as I do my own. For I know that my clients hopes for their family's future are as sacred to them as mine are to me. I do however require that same respect back in return.

If all parties agree to continue, then the real work begins. Your job is to tell me what you've got, what you want, and when you want it. My job is to help you with your job, and then make sure that it all comes to pass. (I must admit, when I write it down like that it sure does sound easy. There are plenty of hours involved in the process though). The truth is, if we work together, with mutual trust and respect, there isn't anything, within reason that we can't accomplish.

Then another important and often missed part is the ongoing service. I personally review all my clients accounts on a regular basis. Plus I suggest that we meet two to three times a year, this will help me know if any of your goals has changed and at this point I report to you on how things are going. (This is a good thing. If I am not accountable to you, then what good am I)?