What is the biggest impact you feel you are making? Some insurances are compulsory in Switzerland and need to be taken out from the day you register in the country as a resident. There is a lot to think about when moving to another country and insurance is only one of them. Not only are there all the different insurance companies and options to consider, but also most of the time there is a language barrier to deal with. The first problem I help people solve is finding the insurance based on their needs that fits their budget and I explain all the options available in a language they understand. I also help with any existing policies that are in place by explaining them in detail and finding a more suitable and cost-effective coverage once people have been established here for a while. Although more and more companies have more documentation available in English, my clients appreciate having everything explained to them in plain English. People’s insurance needs change over time and my company offers a continued support during those changes. Inswift also works with businesses, solving their insurance needs too. Again, depending on the type of business you are looking to start (limited company, independent, etc.) there are compulsory insurances which have to be put in place. Whether an individual or a family, a small business owner or a freelancer, everyone has their own personal insurance needs and we can help set those insurances up or find better deals for existing policies. Finally, for people looking to stay in Switzerland long term, Inswift can provide expert advice for their long-term pension needs.
What are the biggest challenges you have faced thus far? The insurance industry in Switzerland is predominantly male which presents plenty of challenges to a female business owner. At industry conventions and meetings I am often asked who I work for, who’s wife am I and/ or who’s secretary I am. Reactions to my response of me owning my own successful business are generally those of surprise. Another challenge is that I am the sole decision maker in my company. On the positive side, it means I can be very responsive to different issues and demands. However, I sometimes miss having colleagues to use as sounding boards on major decisions.
What did you do before moving to Switzerland? In England I worked as a payroll officer for various multi-nationals. It was never my passion but it allowed me to pursue my interest in music in my free time. I took a few years off to pursue it fully. It was a lot of fun with some amazing experiences of festivals, TV appearances, studio recording, radio interviews, etc. A lot of life-long memories and friends were made along the way. I will never regret taking a few years out of my professional life to fully experience this.
What are your passions outside of your work? I am a huge music fan and have an extensive collection of vinyl records. I also enjoyed sports, especially cycling, I even done a solo cycle around Lake Constance, it was absolutely brilliant and would recommended it to anyone! Due to health problems, I had to stop those activities, but hopefully I'll soon able to pursue them again. I also paint - mainly abstract. It's a relatively new passion but one which allows me to totally disconnect from my business when I need to. Finally, I have a love for language (I speak fluent French and English) and I am currently learning my third, German!
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