Every time you shop for an advisor, many of the same ground rules apply. Following the rules gives you the best chance of finding advisors that are a good fit for your company. So whether you need a tax pro, an attorney or a banker, use these guidelines.

• Get recommendations. Ask business associates, friends, your chamber of commerce and your other advisors who they've used and who they recommend. Use the Yellow Pages as a last resort.

• Check credentials. Don't blindly believe in the credentials presented by a potential advisor. Check them out with local, regional and state organizations. Run their names through the Better Business Bureau. Make sure any accreditations are up to date. Verify memberships in professional organizations.

• Never pay for an initial consultation. Professional advisors understand that a brief initial meeting is like a first date. Both of you should share information and get to know the other's background. Both of you should get a feel for the other's personality and work style. If an advisor wants you to pay for a first-time meeting, go elsewhere.

• Get references. At that initial consultation, ask for references. Experienced professionals have clients on hand who are willing to vouch for their advisor. Try to get names of business owners who operate companies similar to yours. If an advisor refuses to give you names for references, move on to the next candidate.

• Discuss fees first. Don’t be shy. Ask how and when you will be billed. Get specifics about the costs of phone calls, e-mails, even particular projects you anticipate in the future. Don’t leave that initial meeting until you understand the fee structure. If an advisor is vague about fees, pass her by.

• Look for rapport. When shopping for an advisor, you’re not looking for the cheapest fees or biggest firm or snazziest office. You’re looking for someone you can trust, someone who will put the best interests of your business first, someone you can relate to. If your initial meeting with an advisor just doesn’t feel right, then it’s probably best to keep searching.