You work hard for your money. Don’t trust it to just anyone. Just as you took your time to find the perfect bank, make sure you take the time to find the perfect guide, whether an accountant, investment consultant or financial planner.

Consult the phonebook, Internet and people you know, and you’re bound to come up with a long list of names. Narrowing these down can be difficult. To begin, determine what services you are interested in and cross off any individuals or groups that do not provide these services. Then don your detective cap and prepare to do a little snooping.

Start by checking the Internet. Do the names remaining on your list have a website? If so, review it. Does it meet or exceed your professional expectations? Conduct an Internet search on the names. What comes up? Good or bad reviews? Good or bad ratings? Anything else? Take whatever you find with a grain of salt unless it comes from a trustworthy source. Cross off any names you’re hesitant about and consult with friends and family on the names remaining. See what they have heard or if they have any recommendations.

Once you have a short list of professionals, you can start the actual interview process. Call and set up a time for a phone interview. If they are too busy to give you an interview, either by phone or in person, cross them off your list. If they don’t have time for you now, chances are they won’t later. Conduct your phone interviews and find out the basics, including how long they have been in business, what licenses they hold, what professional groups they belong to, what areas they specialize in, etc. Ask for a list of fees and a list of referrals. Review them carefully and take the time to check out the referrals.

Cross off any names that don’t meet your expectations and set up in-person interviews with the rest. Prepare a more detailed list of questions and take the time to study the office surroundings. Is the space clean and organized? Does business appear to run smoothly? Are clients attended to in a timely manner? Do you feel comfortable with the individuals appointed to work with you? This is not a time for personality clashes.

Depending upon the results of the first round of in-person interviews, you may need to conduct another. Do so as needed until you find the right person to assist you with your financial endeavors. It is your money. Don’t leave it to chance. Take the time to find the right person for the job!