This is the time of year that many people take stock of and give thanks for their blessings. The blessing of financial security and stewardship is one that comes to mind.
We had the opportunity to meet Edward Jones Financial Advisors who serve Cullman to get an idea of the company’s history in Cullman, how to choose the advisor who is right for you and what makes Edward Jones different.
Cullman City Lifestyle: Edward Jones has a rich history in Cullman. Tell me more about how Edward Jones has grown here and served Cullman?
Edward Jones: It is interesting to reflect and appreciate an organization operating and serving a community for over 40 years. Edward Jones started with one small office and has grown to nine offices. These offices for the most part have been led by men and women who have not only run a good business, but also served the community in many different capacities. Oftentimes Edward Jones Advisors partner with some of the great community organizations in Cullman and I think the commitment to serving the community has helped Edward Jones grow to the number of offices.
Cullman City Lifestyle: When potential clients consider working with a Financial Advisor, what is important?
Edward Jones: "Financial Advisor" is now a term that is applied to many different levels of financial professionals. It is vital that potential clients understand what that term really means. A true Financial Advisor is not limited to one or two areas of planning. Brokercheck.finra.org is a website that will let people learn more about Financial Advisors and the backgrounds of the professionals they are considering.
Secondly, relationships are an integral element of the partnership between a client and an advisor. Hard questions are sometimes asked in meetings. Hire a professional who helps you feel at ease when those questions are asked. Know that this person wants to learn about you and will continue to serve you even after the initial accounts have been established. A good Financial Advisor can help you make life-changing decisions. Do not make that choice lightly.
Cullman City Lifestyle: How would a client determine which Edward Jones advisor may be best for them?
Edward Jones: Edward Jones has provided a wonderful tool to potential clients called "Edward Jones Match." A short quiz can partner you with the advisor in your area who fits your needs. Just like you will take the quiz to meet us, as advisors, we have done the same work to see who we can best serve.
If online quizzes are not your preference, each Financial Advisor has a bio that can be viewed to learn more about him or her.
Lastly, pick up the phone and call around to see where you may fit. We want to be sure that we are serving clients that enjoy the relationships we are creating. A quick chat may very well help you determine who you enjoy speaking with about your financial goals.
Cullman City Lifestyle: What makes Edward Jones different?
Edward Jones: Edward Jones still gives clients the personalized relationship they deserve. We are committed to partnering for positive impact to improve the lives of our clients and communities. Our Financial Advisors and support staff strive daily to help our clients achieve their life goals and financial security. Every aspect of the firm's business – from the types of products and services we offer to the locations of our branch offices – is designed to cater to the individual investors in the communities where we live and work. Our Financial Advisors take pride in working with a firm that supports and cares for our communities. Edward D. Jones gave his company to his son Ted Jones. Ted Jones then shared his company with the people who worked for him in the form of a partnership.
Ted was asked this question: “Why did you give your company away? You would be a multi-millionaire and one of the richest men in America.”
Ted's response was this: "I am the richest man in America. I have a wife who loves me in spite of my faults. I have four dogs. Two love only me. One loves everybody. One loves no one, but still is very loyal. I have a horse I love to ride around the farm, and best of all, she comes when I call her. I have too much to eat and a dry place to sleep. I enjoy my business. I love my farm and my home. I have a few close friends and money has never been my God."
Ted's legacy lives on as we all work to take care of the firm in which he entrusted us. Our firm exists because of our clients. What's important to the client matters to us all.
“Ted's legacy lives on as we all work to take care of the firm in which he entrusted us. Our firm exists because of our clients. What is important to the client matters to us all.”
www.edwardjones.com