FAQs

Q: Who are your typical clients?

A: Our clients come from many walks of life, many professions, and a range of life stages. We typically work with clients who fit into one or both of the categories described below.

Couples and Independent women who:

• Are motivated to achieve their financial goals.
• Are looking for a long-term relationship with a financial planning team that can help them on their way.
• Consider themselves moderately affluent or are on that path.

Individuals in transition, who might be facing the financial challenges and opportunities associated with:

• Loss of spouse or significant other
• Divorce
• Job change, including new business ventures
• Inheritance or windfall
• End-of-life planning
• Young adult first job

Q: Who wouldn’t be a good fit for Aspire?

A: Anyone who believes they can beat the market, who wants the latest hot stock tip, or who wants to talk about daily stock returns.

Q: Do I have to come to your office?

A: When establishing our initial relationship, it is helpful to meet in one of our offices and have some face-to-face time. As we work together longer, we can use technology to have our reviews if that is your preference. Does my spouse or significant other have to come to our meeting? If we are doing planning for goals that affect your family, we require the couple to both be there. As our relationship matures, we understand that both people may not be able to attend every meeting. Also, as the relationship progresses, we have the ability to conduct some meetings virtually.

Q: Julie, how do you approach working with clients?

A: I listen and try to understand your concerns, goals and expectations. I will try to understand how you like to receive information. Some people are more detail oriented; some like an overview. I will tailor our meetings to how you like to receive information. I am straightforward and will be honest with you about what steps you need to take to work towards your goals.

Q: Do I have to pay for our introductory meeting?

A: No. The introductory meeting is free.

Q: Why is CFP® important?

A: CFP^® professionals must have attained a college degree, and are required to complete an advanced college-level course of study in financial planning. In addition, they have passed the comprehensive 10-hour, 2 day CFP® Certification Examination, and have completed at least three years of full-time financial planning-related experience. In addition, are required to act in a Fiduciary capacity for their clients, which means your best interests are always at heart.

Q: Do you manage investments?

A: Yes. I believe the most productive relationships are those where I work with clients in both a financial planning and investment management capacity.

Q: What is the next step?

A: Call our office at 847-231-0990 to schedule an introductory call, or fill out the Request an Initial Consultation form. If you aren’t ready to meet yet, register to receive our monthly newsletter so you can benefit from our insights, tips, videos, and event invitations even before you become a client.