Too often, we forget to focus on ourselves and prepare for our futures early when it really matters. For those looking to prepare for a successful retirement, this month’s Aliso Viejo Chamber of Commerce member of the month, Jim Sidaris, is your guy.
As a way to highlight June’s member, we sat down with Jim and asked him a few questions about his business and his experience with the Chamber!
AVCC: Jim, tell us about yourself, and business.
Jim Sidaris: I am a financial advisor with Merrill Lynch, and I specialize in helping people reach a successful retirement. My industry has changed a lot over the last 20 or so years, with technology enabling investors to do more of the things which previously would have required some help. But at the same time, new financial challenges we face in growing old make advanced planning much more important, and that’s where I come in.
I’ve been married for 28 years, and wife Maureen and I moved to Aliso Viejo in December 1997. We have two sons, ages 19 and 22, who are both in college.
AVCC: What would you say is your biggest success in business?
Jim Sidaris: My biggest success is when I help a client reach a goal they had thought unobtainable, like being able to retire earlier, or live a lot more comfortably than they had planned. My biggest reward personally is a referral from a happy client.
AVCC Since you’ve become a member of the Aliso Viejo Chamber of Commerce, what have you liked most?
Jim Sidaris Through the chamber I’ve met a lot of awesome people and learned about their jobs or businesses, while at the same time getting a view of what is going on with the city, like development plans. My favorite thing is meeting new business owners.
AVCC: How has being a member of the Chamber helped your business?
Jim Sidaris: I’ve had the opportunity to talk to so many different people about their livelihood; It has made me a better advisor. I’ve also been referred potential clients by chamber members, and I’ve been able to help clients by putting them in contact with chamber members when it made sense.
Whatever your personal goals may be, Jim will work with you to develop a customized financial strategy designed to help you pursue what’s most important to you. If you’re ready to take the next step towards your retirement and are looking to speak with Jim about your options, you can request an appointment or contact him here.