The Shepherds Friendly business development team are always here to help you. This month our key contacts have spoken to us about their time in the industry and their role the Shepherds Friendly Society.
How long have you been working at the Shepherds Friendly Society?
Ant: I have been working at Shepherds Friendly for five years.
Cath: I will have been working for the company 13 years this April – time has flown by!
Alex: I’ve only been here since June, so be gentle with me I’m still learning the ropes!
What do you enjoy most about your job role?
Ant: I really like it when we receive business from an adviser or a company I have visited, as I can see the difference I’ve made. I believe that creating lasting relationships with Advisers and Networks by providing continued contact and assistance is really important. I keep in regular contact with the firms I work with and visit them regularly.
Cath: For me it would have to be all the talking I get to do, I love to talk! I am quite an outgoing person and love meeting and talking to anyone. I’m also interested in finding things out about other people; I suppose you could call it being a little bit ‘nosey’ I guess!
Alex: I’m looking forward to promoting Shepherds Friendly to everyone that will listen to me! I strongly believe we have some great products to benefit the public.
Who inspires you?
Ant: I would have to choose Johnny Cash. He made great music and was a good man. He had more than 1500 songs and 70 albums released over 40 years! He did a lot for charity as well and always tried to help the underdog.
Cath: My dad really inspires me, he is a star! He has worked really hard all his life, stays positive no matter what, and always encourages me to “go for it” and let nothing put me off going for my goal. He believes you are capable of anything if you put your mind to it!
Alex: Alan Sugar, a self made man that has built an impressive business empire, political advisor and it also helps that he used to be chairman of the best football club in the world Tottenham Hotspur.
What is the one peice of advice you would give to someone joining the industry?
Ant: I would encourage all advisers to make use of any Business Development offered by providers.
Cath: My advice would be to know your customers. Get to know them as much as possible.
Alex: I would say never underestimate the power of networking. It is important get to know your customers on a professional and personal basis.
What is the best way for advisers to contact you?
Ant: Advisers can contact me by calling me on 07515 294 496 or emailing me at auttley@shepherds.co.uk.
Cath: Advisers can contact me by calling me on 0161 495 6413 or emailing me at cclappison@shepherds.co.uk
Alex: Advisers can contact me at anytime on my direct line 0161 495 6494 or alternatively email afallowes@shepherds.co.uk
Thanks Ant, Cath and Alex.. If you would like any further information on Shepherds Friendly Society please visit their website www.shepherdsfriendly.co.uk , and follow on Twitter @ShepherdsFS
