Nearly 90 percent of investors who use a financial advisor say the advice they receive plays an important or critical role in meeting their financial goals, and 84 percent say they have a high or very high level of trust in their advisor.

The data, collected through an annual survey in the U.S., Canada and the United Kingdom by Advisor Impact, a firm that provides customized client feedback programs for financial professionals, and sponsored by Genworth Financial Wealth Management, was compiled into "The Rules of Engagement," an in-depth report on the needs and expectations of investors. More than 1,200 investors across the U.S. participated in the survey.

"We believe that client engagement is the most critical metric for advisors and for the industry because it reflects both the client experience and the potential for growth. Engaged clients are the most satisfied and loyal, they perceive higher value in the role of advice and they will drive almost all referral growth for advisors," said Julie Littlechild, Advisor Impact's CEO.