Broker Check
740-446-2000
smithgroup@rwbaird.com
Baird Online

Becoming a Client

Become a Client of The Smith Saunders Group

Your hub for onboarding resources to make the most of your relationship with us.

You will find that this page serves as a starting point for all the tools and that our team will be referring to throughout the first 90 days.

What to Expect in Your Initial Meeting

What to Expect in Your Initial Meeting

In our first meeting, we’ll take some time to get to know you, your priorities, your financial situation, and where you want to head next. Together, we’ll talk through your goals and bring up anything you may not have thought about yet.

Our goal is to make this meeting collaborative and informative. You’ll leave with a clearer sense of how we work and whether we’re the right fit for you. 

Here's what you can expect:

What We May Ask You

  • Basic financial details to understand your current picture, such as your income, expenses, and debts
  • Questions to get to know you better: your family, your interests, and your hobbies
  • Your philosophy towards investing to better understand your tolerance for risk
  • What you value and envision for retirement (or whatever your goal for your weath may be

Common Questions We're Asked

  • How will you help me build and protect my wealth, and what is your overall approach to financial planning and investment management?
  • What specific services do you provide, and how do they align with the goals and needs I have?
  • How will you communicate with me, and what does ongoing support and guidance look like once we begin working together?
  • How do you tailor your recommendations to my personal financial situation, risk tolerance, and long‑term objectives?

Who Are The Smith Saunders Group's Onboarding Specialists?

Your onboarding specialists include Lori Young, Brandy Richards and Kari Gibbs. All three of our Client Specialists are fully registered and between the three of them, have decades of experience in this industry.

They will guide you through the initial setup and remain valuable partners and resources throughout your journey. Typically, these are team members who will continue supporting your relationship long after onboarding is complete.

Resources You May Hear About in Your First Weeks

As you get started with us, you’ll be introduced to several resources that can help you get oriented and feel supported. Below is a short overview of each one—what it is, why it’s useful, and how it can help you along the way.

Client Welcome Packet

Why it matters: You’ll find essential account information, an introduction to our team and Baird’s services, and a collection of helpful resources—all in one convenient place. It will be delivered to your home address.

Budget Worksheet

Why it matters: Understanding your current cash flow and spending habits helps us create a plan tailored to your needs.

Baird Client Statement Guide

Why it matters: This guide explains how to read and access your statements so you can stay informed and confident.

 

ID Watchdog

Why it matters: Protecting your identity is an important part of financial security. Baird partners with ID Watchdog to provide identity theft coverage and fraud detection services.

Learn more about our security programs

Explore ID Watchdog

Baird Online

Why it matters: Get secure access to your accounts, anytime, anywhere- and learn how to make the most of your online portal.

Download Worksheet

Login

360 Wealth Overview

Why it matters: A feature of Baird Online that gives you a real‑time view of your finances. You can link external accounts to track your net worth, cash flow, and budget in one place.

View Guide

Explore 360 Wealth

Additional FAQs

  • Reach out to your onboarding specialist or call Baird’s technical support team at 888-212-8843 (Mon–Fri, 7:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m. CT) or use our Online Support form .
  • Yes! Through 360 Wealth , you can connect accounts from other firms to get a more complete picture of your financial situation. However, we encourage clients to consider holding their investments at one firm for the most holistic advice and seamless experience. Learn more here .
  • Clients of Baird’s Wealth Management business can explore account types, solutions, and investment options in our Client Relationship Booklet. You will receive the booklet from a member of your team via email or print.

Ready to Become a Baird Client with The Smith Saunders Group? We’re excited to hear from you. Share your details in the form below, and a member of our team will be in touch to help you get started.

Thank you!
Oops!