Occasionally my business overlaps with my friendships, and I love it when that happens....
Julie and I first met in 2002.
We waited tables together at an Italian restaurant here in my hometown.
Julie is one of the most kind, welcoming, genuine people you'll ever meet. If you know her, you can't help but love her - that's just who she is.
I came from the chain restaurant world of Ruby Tuesday (are they even still around anymore?) to this fine dining restaurant and felt completely out of my element.
I didn't know how to open a bottle of wine (heck I was 19 and probably drank Boone's Farm back then), or about the variety of seafoods and pastas we offered. Jules took me under her wing and graciously taught me everything she knew, up to and including how to tie a tie (part of our uniform).
Little did she know, she also taught me how to create an awesome customer experience, how to run a team, and how to lead by example.
Jules went on to marry a successful chef and restaurant owner, but years later when he decided to sell the business and go a different path, Jules was ready to try something different.
HYI was looking for a PL Account Manager and I knew Julie's personality, work ethic, and customer service skills would make her a perfect fit. She had all the makings to be successful, she just needed to learn the insurance piece.
She wasn't sure she could do it - but I promised her that on the right team, I knew she could.
One of the things I love about Joe Lapi is that he keeps an open mind. He also trusts me. When I presented Julie as a candidate 3 years ago, he said "If you like her for this, I'll talk to her."
She was offered the job that week (even edging out a candidate who HAD experience).
Today my dear friend who spent her entire adult life in the restaurant world has made a total pivot into insurance, and has a successful new career path ahead of her.
If you're a retail agency always wondering where your next awesome AM is going to come from, try keeping an open mind.
Go for the person who has the right attitude and checks SOME of the boxes.
Planning ahead instead of waiting until the hire is a 5 alarm fire will afford you the time to train folks like this. I promise you it will result in some of your very best hires.
I think Joe and team would agree, Julie's been an asset to HYI - not just professionally, but in keeping with the awesome culture he's creating over there.
Cheers to 3 years, Jules! ??
Cheers to three years!
Congratulations to Julie Albright on her work anniversary! As a Personal Lines Account Manager, Julie’s dedication and expertise make a big impact on our team and our clients. Thank you, Julie, for everything you do!
Of Counsel, Construction, Meyers Nave
1 个月Thanks Brittany for all your great work!!!