Q1 Who has been a mentor or a role model in your career, and how have they influenced you?
So many mentors pulled me along and even pushed me off a cliff when I needed it. Some of my favorite influences were creative problem solvers who asked “how” rather than “if” when opportunities arose. Judy Blackwell, Karen Horn and Priscilla Brown are just a few of the women who encouraged me early on. They included me, trusted me and dusted me off when I fell.
Q2 How do you stay motivated and continue to grow?
Working in the financial services industry provides omnipresent motivations, both because I choose to grow and because constant change in the industry requires it. Perhaps the very best driver for me is the people I work with. Every situation has a new element and each person brings her own perspective. I suspect a healthy case of curiosity and determination to solve puzzles doesn’t hurt.
Q3 What does success look like to you?
Success can be measured so many ways. Over my career, those metrics have changed, and the list is certainly longer. Easily measured goals always ignite my competitive nature, and recognition from my peers and teammates is always fulfilling. Personally, my success is earned when I can ease a client’s mind, build a client’s confidence and help them drive their own financial success.
Q4 What inspired you to enter your field?
When I was in elementary school, the conduct grades on my report cards consistently indicated my aptitude for communication, as in “talks too much!” Thanks to my patient teachers, supportive parents and a degree in journalism, I have been able to use my skill for the greater good. Working in financial services allows me to translate complex ideas into digestible and understandable concepts, and talk about it. Hopefully, I am helping move the needle just a little bit in creating successful, satisfying retirements
