A broker's journey from stuffing envelopes to the top

A broker’s journey from stuffing envelopes to the top | Insurance Business Canada

Insurance News

A broker’s journey from stuffing envelopes to the top

‘Industry daughter’ talks about beginnings, crucial role, and biggest challenge

Insurance News

By
Terry Gangcuangco

While many young people rarely get introduced to insurance before they move into the adult world, Crissy McKay (pictured) was already doing her bit while she was in primary school.

A top insurance broker from Jones Insurance (formerly Jones & Associates Insurance), McKay specializes in personal lines and is a keen supporter of client education. Here, the ‘industry daughter’ talks about her beginnings, what she loves about insurance broking, and the biggest challenge she and her peers are currently facing.

How did you get into insurance?

I first started in ‘insurance’ as a child stuffing envelopes and filing. All four of my parents worked in the insurance industry, albeit in different roles (adjusters and underwriters). Insurance conversations were common around the home.

I started in my first administration role right after university, and over the years worked my way into the broker role.

What do you consider the best part of your role?

Having the ability to take the anxiety out of insurance. I find, especially with my younger clients, they are very nervous to pick up the phone and call me – they are worried their questions are ‘stupid’ and perhaps everyone knows the answer but them.

So, I enjoy using my quirky sense of humour to make my clients more comfortable approaching me with their insurance needs, and also letting them know most people are very confused when it comes to insurance. That’s why we are here!

What do you think will be your biggest challenge this year?

It is hard to approach this question without a belly laugh. I think any broker, especially in Ontario at the moment, would likely say rates! With the high theft surcharges hitting us hard and the cost inflation of living, in general.

The hardest part is trying to keep people insured without them breaking the bank. You have to get creative, and you need to be prepared to empathize.

If you weren’t in insurance, where do you think you would be?

Although I would love to say I would have been a rock star, the reality is that I would have likely pursued a career in teaching. I love kids – and sometimes forget that I am not one.

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