Getting the best from your professional relationships

You might have a regular accountant you see at tax time who helps you sort out what you owe the government, or if you’re lucky, what the government owes you. Sometimes they will make recommendations on how to reduce your tax for the next year. However, for many, there is more that can be done to improve their financial position.

And in many cases, this insight comes from a financial adviser.

Many financial planning practices are now working with accountants, mortgage brokers, insurance professionals and, in some cases, lawyers.  Your adviser is still often your main contact in your financial matters but many have practices that act as a concierge service providing referrals to other professionals.

As complexities arise in personal circumstances, your adviser is able to refer you to an aged care specialist if they don’t provide the service themselves, or to a lawyer, if your will needs updating or you need a power of attorney or enduring power of attorney.

If you’re going through a divorce or something complex, a whole team might be warranted, which may include a financial adviser, lawyer, accountant, counsellor, mediator and even mortgage broker or banker.

Once you have a good adviser, or other professional, it is likely that they can refer you to others who have similar styles and values.

If you’re interested in seeing an adviser there are several ways to find one. First is through the Find a Planner tool here.

Another way is through LinkedIn, where many advisers promote their professional profiles.

And, of course, personal recommendations from friends and family are always valuable.

Make sure you’ve got the right team together to help you achieve the financial future you desire.