How Women Should Select The Appropriate Wealth Manager

By Frederick J. Dawson, ChFC, CLU

You need someone who demonstrates a passion for working with women. One who displays a sincere level of respect for women….one who asks more questions, has more dialog, more stories, helps to base decisions on meaningful discussions, may have a longer decision cycle, allows comparison shopping, someone who wants to make you a “raging fan.”

Step 1:  The Discovery Meeting

A highly structured discovery meeting should include many questions that ask about the quantitative issues as well as the qualitative issues in a woman’s life. This meeting should take no less than about 2 – 3 hours.  The focus of the meeting is spent in understanding her and her circumstances, not trying to figure out what financial product should be sold.

Step 2:
Investment Planning Meeting

At age 65 women can expect to live, on average, an additional 20 years. It is for that reason that women have a heightened interest in assuring that their investment portfolio is aligned with their long term goals, objectives and concerns. The plan should culminate in the action steps that need to be taken and when appropriate.

Step 3:
Mutual Commitment Meeting

Research has indicated that women prefer more time during the decision cycle. Certainly no decision should be rushed. Make sure that this particular firm should be utilized. A Personal Chief Financial Officer (PCFO) who wears the hat of Wealth Manager is an important member of the team of professionals. The selection of this person is of utmost importance and requires proper due diligence and consideration.

Step 4:
90 Day Follow up Meeting

Our research has shown that women seek education, organization and simplicity around their finances. An especially attentive PCFO will make sure that all questions are addressed in a dignified encouraging way and that at no time should a patronizing tone be used. Don’t hesitate to ask the same question 10 times if you need to understand an important point. A great PCFO will encourage questions.

Step 5:
Systematic Review Meetings

In the beginning it may be appropriate for monthly meetings.  As things progress, quarterly or semi-annual meetings may serve you better. No less than annual meetings are suggested, as
changes in your status as well as laws and regulations will necessitate an annual review.

Fred Dawson, ChFC (Chartered Financial Consultant), CLU (Chartered Life Underwriter) has over 30 years of comprehensive wealth management experience.
He is Executive Vice President of Bassett, Dawson & Foy, Inc. and a founding principal partner of the firm. Successful women are prominent among Fred’s diverse domestic and international client base of professionals, retirees, professional musicians and business owners. In 2008 Fred was cited by Delaware Today Magazine as one of Delaware’s Top Financial Advisors. Criteria are not necessarily based on client satisfaction or advisor performance. Fred received a State of Delaware Senate Tribute in 1999 for his “long and distinguished record of service to his community, his country, his state and his region.”

Fred is frequently sought after as a public speaker on financial matters. If your group or organization would like to hear Fred speak merely contact his office  at 302-999-9330.

Fred Dawson, ChFC (Chartered Financial Consultant), CLU (Chartered Life Underwriter) has over 30 years of comprehensive wealth management experience.  He is Executive Vice President of Bassett, Brosius & Dawson, Inc. and a founding principal partner of the firm.  Successful women are prominent among Fred’s diverse domestic and international client base of professionals, retirees, professional musicians and business owners.  In 2008 Fred was cited by Delaware Today Magazine as one of Delaware’s Top Financial Advisors.  Criteria are not necessarily based on client satisfaction or advisor performance.  Fred received a State of Delaware Senate Tribute in 1999 for his “long and distinguished record of service to his community, his country, his state and his region.”

For more information or to schedule a complimentary, no obligation initial consultation contact Fred’s office at 302-999-9330 or [email protected].

• Bassett, Brosius & Dawson, Inc. is an Independent Registered Investment Advisory Firm with the State of Delaware.
• Securities Offered Through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC
• Any opinions are those of Fred Dawson and not necessarily those of RJFS or Raymond James.

Frederick J. Dawson, ChFC, CLU

Wealth Manager, Raymond James
Financial Services, Inc.

Executive Vice President,
Bassett, Dawson & Foy, Inc.

Bassett, Dawson & Foy, Inc.

E.A. Delle Donne Corporate Center

1011 Centre Road, Suite 110

Wilmington, DE  19805

302-999-9330

www.bdfwealth.com •   fdawson@bdfwealth