Palatine business focuses on helping retirees plan future
An interview with David A. Theis, president of Fee-Only Financial Advisors Ltd.
Q: Describe your business. What do you do?
A: Fee-Only Financial Advisors Ltd. is an independent fee-only financial planning firm that provides advice to retirees. We have over 20 years of experience in the financial advising industry and are committed to helping clients achieve their goals. We develop a personal relationship with our clients, partnering with them to create a plan for a secure financial future.
Q: What made you start your business?
A: When I began my career in financial services, I discovered I wanted to give my clients more personal attention. So, I created an independent retiree-centered practice where I could truly get to know my clients. At Fee-Only Financial Advisors, my clients are like family to me. I've seen clients through early retirement, death in the family, winning the lottery and relocation. I've attended family weddings, visited my clients in the hospital, and celebrated the births of grandchildren.
Q: What has been the most difficult obstacle in running or starting a small business?
A: For starting my business, the most difficult obstacle was telling my wife that I wanted to leave my successful corporate job to start my own financial advisory company. Fortunately, she was very supportive. For running my business, the most difficult obstacle is finding balance between work time and family time. I can easily work seven days a week, but family is also important to me. So, I work hard in my business, but I also set aside time to be with my family.
Q: What do you enjoy most about operating your business?
A: I value the relationships I have with all of my clients. For example, while talking with my clients, we cover the financials and then enjoy sharing stories and experiences.
Q: Is this what you pictured yourself doing when you were young? When you were young, what did you want to be when you grew up?
A: When I was young, I wanted to be an accountant or a teacher. As a financial adviser, I am able to apply aspects of both an accountant and a teacher (analyzing and educating) to help my clients.
Q: What keeps you up at night?
A: I care about my clients. So, if one of my clients is going through a difficult time with their health or family, that is certainly on my mind.
Q: If you could give one tip to a rookie business owner, what would it be?
A: Connect with others in your field. I have an excellent network of financial adviser colleagues. Together, we share the challenges and solutions of running a business.
— Kim Mikus
Ÿ Every Monday we feature a suburban small business. We want to hear about yours. For information, email kmikus@dailyherald.com.