A smart financial planner scrutinizes every aspect of your financial life. So you don’t want a narrow focus here. Look for a professional with a broad base of experience.

Most financial planners have some form of certification and specialize in particular financial areas. They come with an alphabet soup of designations, such as:

• Certified Financial Planner (CFP)
• Chartered Financial Consultant (ChFC)
• Personal Financial Specialist (PFS)

For a detailed understanding these and other designations, go to the Web site of the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Inc. at www.cfp.net/learn. Click on “Financial Professionals.” You can also click “How to Choose A Planner,” which includes an interview checklist.

Many financial planners are members of the National Association of Personal Financial Advisors (NAPFA). These planners generally provide comprehensive financial advise on asset management, retirement and taxes. Members of NAPFA don’t take commissions on any investments they recommend to clients, which avoids conflict of interest. Find out more at www.napfa.org.

When choosing a financial planner, look at more than his designation and certification. And proceed with caution.

Rarely will you ever find a single advisor who can guide you in all aspects of your financial life. So look for someone who is willing to work with your CPA, banker and other advisors. You want a planner who’s a team player to help weave together your personal and business financial plans. If a planner suggests that you leave an advisor you already trust, be suspicious.

Also look for complete transparency. Your planner should willingly disclose all sources of compensation she earns from your account.

And make sure your planner’s investment philosophy jibes with your own. This personal compatibility is crucial. If you’re conservative, an aggressive financial advisor could cause many sleepless nights.