Money talks
Being honest about financial matters is difficult, but it can pay dividends
People talk a lot. These days, even discussing taboo topics is common online, and in person, of course. Politics, religion and sex — it seems nothing is off-limits anymore. All except the last one: finances.
But what if I were to tell that you there is one simple thing you can do to make more money? And what if that thing was as simple as talking about money more often?
When was the last time you had an open conversation about your finances? The reality is that conversations about our finances are still viewed as off-limits for many people, even with our closest business confidants and family members.
Are you embarrassed? Do you want to pretend you are in better shape than you are? Were you taught it was crass to discuss money?
Actor Rainn Wilson (Dwight from NBC’s “The Office”) has a YouTube channel and website called SoulPancake, and he is trying to tackle the taboo nature of talking about money.
SoulPancake teamed up with finance industry powerhouse Northwestern Mutual to encourage real people to bravely open up and have real conversations about money. By using his YouTube channel, which boasts more than 1.5 million subscribers, he is getting people to talk about the forbidden topic of money.
Northwestern Mutual is using SoulPancake as a soapbox to set a new example when it comes to talking about money. The two are sparking conversations among family members for all to see.
By sharing these real conversations of others talking about their finances, they believe that people won’t be so scared or embarrassed to talk about it anymore. And they hope that it will break the tradition of keeping quiet about money and lead to conversations that can bring about smarter financial moves.
As they have encouraged people to talk about money, they have realized that many people are not sure how to initiate the talk.
Here are seven tips to start discussions about your finances:
1. Family finances
Conversations start with questions. The best way to spark the money talk with your family is to ask questions.
But instead of asking questions about money, ask about goals. What are your goals for retirement? What is your dream car? What is your dream college? Framing the conversation about goals is a great way to discuss how to make the money to attain your goals. What are the financial components of the goal and how can you achieve them?
2. Student loans
According to a report from the Institute for College Access and Success, about 70 percent of college students who graduated in 2015 from public colleges had an average of $30,000 in student debt per borrower; the average U.S. household has approximately $7,000 in credit card debt.
It is important to have a conversation about how to get out of student debt before you get into it. This includes having honest conversations about the cost of college when shopping for schools. Know how long it will take to pay off student loans and put together a pretend budget to see what the monthly payment will really look like.
3. Credit conversation
Many people have no idea what their credit score is, and they find out too late when they get denied for a credit card or don’t get approved for the apartment they want.
Many credit reports have mistakes due to identity, incorrect account details or fraudulent activity. It is a good idea to pull your credit and review for accuracy.
Many major credit card companies have begun to provide credit scores for all their customers on a monthly basis. The score is usually listed on your monthly statement and also can be found by logging in to your account online.
Non-profit credit counselors and HUD-approved housing counselors also can often provide you with a free credit report and score and help you review them. You also can buy your FICO credit score at myfico.com.
4. Raises
Asking your boss for a raise can be one of the most intimidating money talks. But if it works, it can be well worth it.
Before you meet, determine a firm number based on your role, responsibilities and tenure with the company. Have examples that support your position. Set a meeting with your boss when he or she won’t be too busy or overwhelmed. Finally, have a backup plan to negotiate vacation or other benefits if money isn’t on the table.
5. Conversation with partner
It should come as no surprise that money is a common source of disagreements among life partners. That’s why it’s important to discuss how you’ll handle finances before business deals, investments or other big money moves.
6. Views on money
Wilson suggests you take a financial compatibility quiz with your partner and share the results. This can help you openly discuss your money management approach and how you’ll blend your financial styles together.
7. Talk with yourself
This isn’t actually a talk, but it’s incredibly important to be honest with yourself about your financial situation and goals. Start by outlining your budget, including monthly expenses, debt and savings. Then, make a list of shortterm and long-term financial goals.
If your current budget doesn’t align with your financial plan and lifestyle, determine where you can spend less or save more to get on track.
Are you inspired to talk about your finances yet?