5 green flags to look for when seeking a financial expert to work with

Collaborating with a financial expert could help you provide a more holistic service that facilitates better outcomes for clients.

However, not all professionals are created equal.

If you want to build a long-term, harmonious working relationship that benefits both you and your clients, it’s essential that you do your due diligence.

So, here are five green flags to look for when seeking a financial expert to refer your clients to.

1. Industry-recognised qualifications and accreditations

Providing financial advice and guidance to individuals who may be experiencing challenging life events, such as divorce, is an important responsibility.

Working with a professional who holds relevant, up-to-date qualifications and accreditations could give you and your clients the peace of mind that they’re in safe hands.

In the UK, look for a financial expert who has achieved the level four diploma in financial planning. This qualification meets the Financial Conduct Authority’s requirements for retail investment advisers, demonstrating that they have the core knowledge and skills to support your clients.

Of course, every one of your clients has unique needs and goals. So, a financial expert who has engaged with professional development beyond this diploma (giving them a greater breadth of knowledge), may be better placed to meet more of your clients’ needs.

Read more: Learn about Lottie Kent’s extensive qualifications

2. Complementary expertise and specialisms

Choosing a financial expert who offers specialist knowledge that complements your legal expertise could ensure your clients receive the tailored service they need.

For example, if you’re a divorce solicitor, working with someone who holds Resolution Accredited Divorce Specialist status may be especially valuable.

Relevant personal experience is another notable green flag.

Vanguard (14 January 2025) has reported that emotional support is one of the core benefits of financial advice. As such, your clients may benefit from working with a professional who has lived experience of their challenges and can provide empathetic support.

Moreover, collaborating with a financial expert who can build your clients’ knowledge and confidence around their finances may help you keep negotiations moving forward.

Read more: 4 compelling reasons why divorce solicitors need to work with a financial expert

3. An excellent reputation and trustworthiness

Before referring your clients to another professional, you’ll want to be sure they are reliable and trustworthy.

There are several key ways to assess a financial expert’s reputation:

• Seek feedback from professionals in your network
• Read client testimonials on their website and review sites like Google
• Look for evidence of industry awards and recognition that demonstrate high-quality service.

A tick in each of these boxes demonstrates that a professional is committed to achieving the highest standards possible.

Read more: Find out about the True team and learn how we work with clients

4. A client-centred approach

Some financial experts are restricted to recommending specific types of products or products from certain providers. This could limit the options available to your clients and lead them down a path that isn’t suited to their needs.

In contrast, an independent financial professional can offer a broader range of solutions, allowing them to tailor their support to individual requirements.

Moreover, a client-centric expert will show a dedication to empowering their clients – especially those in stressful situations – through education and approachability. For example, by explaining complex financial concepts in accessible ways.

Putting your clients’ concerns and objectives at the heart of financial advice in this way could ensure more positive outcomes in the short, medium, and long term.

5. A strong cultural fit

Creating professional connections that last and serve both parties generally requires a robust cultural fit.

When seeking a financial expert to work with, it might help you to consider the following questions:

• Do your businesses have shared values?
• What ethical standards do you both adhere to?
• How do you each like to work with connections and clients?

Of course, the best way to assess this is to reach out and have a chat…

Get in touch

If you’d like to find out more about how we can work together to support your clients, I’d love to hear from you.

Please contact me at lottie@truefinancialdesign.co.uk or call 0330 088 9138.

Please note

This article is for general information only and does not constitute advice. The information is aimed at retail clients only.

All information is correct at the time of writing and is subject to change in the future.

FP34751 APPROVED BY 2PLAN WEALTH MANAGEMENT ON 18.07.2025