THREE THINGS YOU CAN DO NOW TO INVEST

1 BRUSH UP ON THE BASICS. You don’t have to become a financial planner, like Sandra did, but read a book on money management and investing, register for a seminar or attend a lunchand- learn session at work.

2

ASSESS YOUR RISK. Sandra suggests keeping six months’ worth of fixed expenses in a low- risk investment, such as a tax- free savings account or a guaranteed investment certificate. Then, speak with an adviser to help determine your risk tolerance for additional investments.

3

FIND AN ADVISER YOU TRUST. Meet with advisers before you hire them. Make sure they’re accredited, and ask up front how they get paid: through the cost of products, a percentage of the assets they’re managing or a fee- for- service model? Some experts recommend fee- for- service to ensure you’re getting objective advice and not being encouraged to buy the investments that earn the most for the adviser. And don’t forget about rapport. “The minute you feel you can’t ask a question, you’re in front of the wrong person,” says Staff.