Here at Inszone, one of our missions is to make sure that every employee is appreciated, acknowledged, and recognized for their achievements. This Employee Spotlight series aims to celebrate success and highlight the talented individuals we have at Inszone. This month, please join us in congratulating Laurie Graves, our Employee Spotlight for the month of October!
Laurie Graves is a Senior Commercial Lines Account Manager at Inszone Insurance Services. She joined the Inszone team in 2008, bringing a wealth of knowledge and experience in the industry. Laurie has over 24 years of experience in the insurance industry, 17 of those years have been focused on the commercial side, specializing in Contractors. She is a well-versed insurance agent and expert in fostering stellar, long-term client relationships.
Laurie strives to demonstrate professionalism in all aspects of her job. She enjoys building new relationships and helping her clients to protect their investments. The dedication she brings to her title has earned her admiration and respect from clients and co-workers alike.
Over the years, Laurie has learned to tackle the daily challenges that coincide with the insurance industry. Her ability to keep up with the fast-paced environment has made her an integral part of the Inszone team. During her tenure, Laurie has established her reputation as one of Inszone’s top sales leaders, earning three prestigious accolades such as Cross Sale Champion (2014), Sales and Service MVP (2018) and Service MVP (2020) awards.
“I’ve had the privilege of working with Laurie this past year and have been able to witness her professionalism up close. As one of Inszone’s most experienced team members, she exemplifies the principles that the company stands for. She takes each of her clients’ businesses personally which includes identifying risks while seeking out solutions to help mitigate those risks. She’s been a great teammate and asset to Inszone by sharing her knowledge and experience with anyone that asks or needs assistance. She’s truly been a joy to work with.” said Richard Choe, Inszone’s Commercial Sales Team Manager and Laurie’s direct supervisor.
“I am constantly impressed by Laurie’s skills and performance. I cannot think of an employee that works harder and cares more than she does for our clients. She truly is a remarkable individual and her clients love and appreciate her just as much as we do. She is the definition of Account Manager goals!” added Natalie Fanin, VP – Commercial Lines Service and the head of the Servicing department.
To get to know Laurie a little bit better, we asked her a couple of question about her and her time in the insurance world. Here’s what she had to say:
Q: How did you get into the insurance industry?
A: My determination to have a better life has brought me into the insurance industry. I started my career in the industry at the age of 18 after high school with high hopes and determination. I went in for an early interview, responding to a newspaper ad for a small insurance office in Sacramento, I was able to get the job after the second interview. There was a lot to learn and it was very challenging at first, but being in the insurance industry is one of the best things I’ve ever done in my life. Insurance was interesting and began to open doors for opportunity and growth for me. It was a very exciting time and still is!
Q: What qualities do you have that make you a “great” insurance agent?
A: I would have to say my care for my clients. I put my clients first before anything else and provide them the tools and insurance products they need to succeed and grow their business. I also love connecting with people! I treat them how I would want to be treated.
Q: How would you define success?
A: Being happy. I believe that success is about living and having a happy life and making this world a better place for everyone.
Q: What makes you proud to work in the insurance industry?
A: Playing a big role in helping my clients protect their businesses when catastrophe strikes, that is what makes me proud to work in the insurance industry. Making a difference in people’s lives – there are simply no words for how good that feels.
Q: How do you balance your career and family?
A: I balance my career and family by making time for the things I love such as dinner together after work and spending time with them during the weekends.
Q: Can you share us your personal quote that you live by?
A: “Think of all the beauty still left around you and be happy.”
Q: In your personal time, what do you do?
A: When I’m not at work, I love spending time with my family, doing things together and enjoying the little things.
Juan Cruz
