If you decide to hire a financial advisor to give you investment advice, remember that advisors come in a number of flavors, some more qualified than others. While you can't just declare yourself a financial advisor and hang out a shingle, the requirements aren't too rigorous for some accreditations.

Many professionals who offer investment advice will be happy to visit with you for free on the first visit. Take advantage of this willingness to get to know several potential advisors, at least, before you commit to any individual. They may all be good, but you need to find someone who clicks with you.

If you're getting investment advice from a professional, don’t be afraid to ask him or her what investment opportunities they believe in strongly enough to take advantage of themselves. Keep in mind, though, that those might not be appropriate to you, and discuss that possibility with them.