Your Money, Your Voice: How to Advocate for Yourself in Financial Conversations

Prosper Admin
Oct 2
3 min read

⚠️ Any advice provided through our communications and platforms is general financial advice only and has not considered your individual objectives, financial situation, or needs. Consequently, before you decide to act on any of the information provided, it’s important for you to evaluate its appropriateness for your personal circumstances.

Money conversations can feel intimidating — especially when you're sitting across from a financial professional, trying to make sense of jargon, fees, and complex advice. But here’s the truth: your voice matters. Whether you're discussing superannuation, insurance, investments, or budgeting, you deserve to be heard, respected, and understood.

At Prosper, we believe financial empowerment starts with self-advocacy. When women ask better questions, challenge assumptions, and negotiate with confidence, they don’t just protect their money — they shape their future.

Why Self-Advocacy Matters

Women often face systemic barriers in financial services: lower retirement balances, less tailored advice, and unconscious bias. Many reports feeling dismissed or overwhelmed in meetings, unsure how to push back or ask for clarity.

But self-advocacy isn’t about confrontation. It’s about curiosity, confidence, and control. It’s knowing that you have every right to understand your options, question recommendations, and make decisions that align with your values.

Ask Better Questions — And Keep Asking

The most powerful tool in any financial meeting is a well-placed question. Instead of nodding along, try:

“Can you explain that in plain language?”
“What are the risks and alternatives?”
“How does this strategy support my long-term goals?”
“What assumptions are built into this advice?”

If something doesn’t sit right, ask again. A good adviser welcomes questions — and should never make you feel rushed or inadequate.

Know Your Worth — And Negotiate Fees

Financial advice is valuable, but it should also be transparent and fair. Before committing, ask:

“Can you break down your fees and how they’re calculated?”
“Are there any commissions or conflicts I should know about?”
“What services are included — and what’s extra?”

If the fees feel high or unclear, don’t be afraid to negotiate or shop around. You’re not being difficult — you’re being diligent.

Challenge Advice That Doesn’t Fit

Not all advice is created equal. If a recommendation feels misaligned with your goals, lifestyle, or values, speak up. You might say:

“I’m not comfortable with that level of risk — what are my other options?”
“This strategy seems focused on tax, but I’m more concerned about flexibility.”
“Can we explore something that better supports my caregiving responsibilities?”

Remember: you’re the expert on your life. Your adviser is there to support, not override, your perspective.

Prepare Like a Pro

Confidence grows with preparation. Before any financial meeting:

Write down your goals, questions, and concerns
Bring relevant documents (e.g. super statements, insurance policies)
Practice saying “I’d like to think about that” — it’s okay to pause before deciding

If you feel nervous, bring a trusted friend or partner. You can also ask for a follow-up summary in writing to review at your own pace.

Build a Relationship — Not Just a Transaction

The best financial advice is collaborative. Look for professionals who listen deeply, explain clearly, and respect your lived experience. If you feel dismissed, patronised, or pressured, it’s okay to walk away. Your money deserves care. And so do you.

How Prosper Financial Planning Supports You

At Prosper, we champion women’s voices in every financial conversation. Our approach ensures you feel safe, respected, and empowered. We help you:

Prepare for meetings with clarity and confidence
Understand your options in plain language
Ask better questions and challenge advice constructively
Navigate fees and service models transparently
Make decisions that reflect your values and goals

Whether you're new to financial planning or refining your strategy, we’re here to amplify your voice — not drown it out.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

If you’ve ever felt unsure, unheard, or overwhelmed in financial conversations, you’re not alone — and you’re not stuck. Book a complimentary consultation with Prosper Financial Planning and discover how powerful your voice can be when paired with expert support.