The First Meeting: What to Ask Your Financial Coach

You’ve made an appointment, done your homework, and are ready to meet your Workers Way financial coach for the first time. The first meeting is the beginning of a relationship with a coach who will become a partner to help you reach your dreams. They’ll ask you questions about your goals for the future and your current circumstances. And you should ask questions, too. This guide will get you started:

• How much am I spending? This may seem like a no-brainer, but a key step toward financial wellness is laying it all out. Talk to your financial coach about your monthly expenses and find out where your money is going.

• How can I tackle debt? Whether you have personal loans, credit card debt, student loans, or car loans, ask your coach about a personalized strategy to pay them off.

• How much do I need in an emergency fund? This amount will vary depending on your personal circumstances. Your coach can help you decide how much you should shoot for in an emergency fund and then help you make a plan to hit that number.

• How do I create a budget? Maybe you already have a budget and need to reassess how it’s working (or not) for you. Maybe this is the first time you’re creating a monthly budget. Either way, your coach will work alongside you to determine a budget that meets your needs and goals.

• How do I meet my long-term goals? Talk to your coach about any big-ticket plans – whether that’s paying for your child’s college education in the long term or a family vacation in the short term – and ask how you can set a path to get there.

In your first meeting, you will meet with a certified financial coach in a confidential space to talk about where life has taken you and where you want to go. Your coach is not there to judge or make you feel embarrassed about your financial challenges. Coming prepared with questions of your own will help ensure the partnership is positive and productive. You’re on your way!