Question: My biggest problem is trusting someone else – a stranger – to advise my husband and I about our money. What makes a “trustworthy” advisor? Because our guy feels like a used car salesman and I don’t do much of what he “advises”. (You can use this tool to connect with a financial advisor who might meet your needs.)

Have a question about working with your current financial advisor or hiring a new one? Email [email protected].

To respond: The pros say that if you don’t trust your advisor, it’s probably time to move on. “If an advisor is so strong that he looks like a used car salesman, that’s probably not a good sign,” says Lisa Weil, Certified Financial Planner, Principal and founding member of Clarity Northwest Clarity Northwest.

To find someone new, start by asking family and trusted friends to see if they have anyone they work with. Just be aware that even with a recommendation, you need to vet the person carefully. Indeed, “if someone recommends a counselor to you because he’s a great or incredibly nice guy, ask yourself if you would hire a brain surgeon because he’s a great or incredibly nice guy,” Weil says.

If referrals aren’t enough, consider finding an advisor using the National Association Personal Finance Advisors’ Find an Advisor site or the Garrett Planning Network, or using a financial advisor matching service like this one from SmartAsset.

The pros say it can be a good idea to hire a certified fee-only financial planner because they’re fiduciaries, which means they’re legally bound to put your interests first, and are required to pass an exam. and have thousands of hours of practice. But that’s not the case with many people who call themselves financial planners — many “advisors are licensed salespeople” who have no incentive to put your best interests first, says licensed financial planner Steve Stanganelli. This guide will help you understand how to find a trustworthy advisor.

“Ultimately, you want someone who is well-qualified and knowledgeable who listens to your particular goals and concerns,” says Weil And, advises Certified Financial Planner Grace Yung, “You need to have a natural rapport and click the personality map. If you don’t have it, you should go find it,” Yung says. And remember, “although it takes time to build trust with any advisor,” says certified financial planner Zack Hubbard — if confidence doesn’t develop, find another advisor.