Ask
For example, you ask your advisor what commission does he get. (If at all). The agent comes prepared with an answer. And that is, “Arre Sir, Aap jaise Bade log/ Bade Dilwale log/ ko aisi choti baatein shobha nahi deti”. You can’t really argue with that, no?. The answer just deflected your question to outer space!
I don’t recommend you to take kickbacks or what is commonly known as rebate. It’s illegal and is earned by your advisor for his service. But at the same time, we must be aware of the various distribution costs of various financial products.
So, instead of asking what rebate I get, I need to understand other options and their respective costs. More specifically, instead of what I get now, how does the product suit my financial goals?
You need to understand whether your advisor is capable of providing service as just a document handler or can provide a holistic financial service by understanding your specific profile, risk appetite and your financial goals.
So even before asking inane questions, you need to mull on what is your requirement. I mean do you need a document handler or a complete financial planner. Once you have decided what you need, you are ready for the relevant questions to the guy who tries to sell you a financial product.
Yes, this means preparing yourself to ask the right questions! And as I said earlier, it’s not easy.
The agent who tries to sell you a product has been trained on selling techniques and objection handling. He’s trained to ask the right question. For example, the agent asks, ” Should I collect the cheque in the morning or evening? What’s convenient to you?”
He does not ask, “Should I come to collect the cheque? And when?” There’s a lot of difference in the above two questions. This is what experts name as the Framing effect.
For further reading: And if you have questions on “How to ask”, you might like to read Joseph’s take on “How to ask for help”
Happy Asking! Any questions to me? 
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