The value of an investment with St. James’s Place will be directly linked to the performance of the funds selected and may fall as well as rise. You may get back less than the amount invested. The levels and bases of taxation and reliefs from taxation can change at any time and are dependent on individual circumstances.
Financial planning process
Financial planning can feel overwhelming—there’s a lot to think about, and it’s easy to put it off. That’s why I follow a straightforward six‑step process that makes it all feel manageable. I start with where you are now, explore what really matters to you, and then build a plan that connects the two. No jargon. No pressure. Just a clear path forward that gives you confidence in your future.
6 steps to creating Your financial plan
What are the specific steps in the financial planning process?
The journey begins with you getting in touch with me and arranging an initial chat (remember what we said about taking action!). During this brief conversation, I will ask you some key questions to make an initial assessment.
Step 1: Getting to know your needs and goals.
The planning process itself begins with us meeting for an initial consultation. It’s an opportunity for us to get to know each other and for me to find out what’s important to you. It’s unlikely that we’ll discuss much by way of financial “stuff” at this stage. It would be helpful if you’ve got a grasp on the big picture of your current position, but the focus is on me deciding if the process could benefit you.
By the end of our conversation, I will be able to tell you if I think I can help, and you can decide whether or not you want my help.
(PS – I will give you full details of the costs involved as well. There are no hidden fees or surprises!)
If we agree to move forward, the real work begins! I will give you some homework to complete before our next meeting—normally within the next two weeks. Essentially, I am going to need to know:
What comes in
What goes out
What you own
How much you owe
Step 2: Defining your goals and current position.
We began talking about your goals at our first meeting, but I’ll work with you to refine them further in our second meeting. I’ll also look at the information you have prepared and use this to establish precisely where you are today, and discuss strategies that could move you toward where you want to be in the future.
NB: Don’t worry if you don’t have the most up‑to‑date valuations—part of the service includes me obtaining the latest information on your behalf, so that we have an accurate starting point!
Step 3: Analyzing your financial situation.
Using all the up‑to‑date information you’ve provided, I will prepare a detailed analysis of exactly where you stand today and what your financial future is likely to look like before I give you any advice.
This is your default plan—a clear picture of your future based on your current arrangements. It uses standard assumptions for inflation, investment growth and the latest tax rates. The report will not only show your current position but, more importantly, what actions are needed to achieve your goals and objectives. It will highlight the strengths you can build on and the weaknesses that may need to be addressed.
Step 4: Creating a personalised financial plan
I will set out exactly what needs to happen in each area of your finances so you can start making meaningful progress towards the future you want. This isn’t about vague suggestions or compromises—it’s clear, actionable advice based on what will work best for you. That advice forms your personal financial blueprint: a precise plan showing how each part of your financial life fits together, keeping you on course and giving you the best chance of building the future you’ve imagined.
Step 5: Presenting the plan and taking action.
Once all the preparation work is complete, this is the point where I roll up my sleeves and put your plan into action. I’ll meet with you again so I can walk you through the findings of my analysis and present your personalised action blueprint.
This isn’t just a list—it’s the bridge between where you are now and where you want to be. It contains the steps you’ve told me you want to take, along with the actions I am professionally obliged to recommend in order to protect and improve your financial future.
The key here is action. Reports and recommendations on their own don’t create change—taking the agreed steps does. Your blueprint may cover everything from cash management and debt repayment to pensions, protection and conventionally recognised, regulated investment solutions—all tailored to move you closer to your goals.
Step 6: Reviewing and adjusting the plan regularly.
Of course I must review your plan. The client review process is specifically designed to monitor your progress towards your goals. It is essential for us to meet at least annually to ensure that your plan is working for you, as well as to react to any changes in your circumstances, tax laws or the general economic environment.
Discover the Difference with Expert Financial Guidance
At the heart of everything I do is a commitment to understanding your unique financial goals and providing tailored advice to help you achieve them. With years of experience and a client-focused approach, I’m here to guide you every step of the way.