Follow this acronym to assist you in selecting a financial advisor

Acrynom is "See COP R".  Letters are C C O P R. 

C - stands for credentials.  There are no credential required to be financial advisor - no degree(s), no designation(s) and no experience.

Degree(s) - Look for someone with at least one degree in finance because financial planning is part art and part science.  Its core is finance even though tax, law and psycology is involved.  In order to have  the skills needed and a broad enough perspective to practice the science of financial planning artfully, look for at least one degree in Finance.

Designation - Look for the CFP(R) .  It requires passing an exam, agreeing to abide by a code of ethics and disciplinary procedures and taking continuing education.

Experience - A few years of experience with the proper degree(s) and designation is worth more than many years of experience without it.

C- Compensation Some are compensated with what is essentially commissions.  Others are fee-only and are compensated with only fees, by the hour or by the project.  Still others charge both commissions and fees and call thenselves fee based.

Objectivity - Ability to implement plan wih the lowest expense , best preforming products is essential for a plan to live up to its potential.  Like holiday shopping, if you could only shop at one place, it would cost more and you would get less. 

Product - There are no uniform standards in a financial plan.  It makes it hard for consumers to compare quotes.  Addtionally one size does not work for all- that's where that perspective derived from the appropriate degree(s), designation(s) and experience is essential to assure you get the plan you need- no more, no less!

Also are you getting a plan designed as a marketing tool to sell products.  It costs less initially but is likely to cost you much more when all costs are considered. A plan that is a plan in itself is more likely to be tailored to meet your needs and can be objectively implemented.

R- Relationship Most people consider their relationship with someone first when they should consider it last, after the CCOP criteria.