Employee Spotlight: Gwen Stone

Updated:
March 12, 2021

Scrivens has a diverse team of professionals: from industry influencers to musicians, from analysts to poets. The Employee Spotlight series aims to highlight the talented individuals who work here. Each month, we’ll be featuring an interview here on the blog and on our social accounts.

Meet Gwen Stone, Personal Account Manager

Gwen grew up in Southern Ontario until she moved to Ottawa 25 years ago in 1996. She is a proud mom of a beautiful young lady who will be 24 this year.

Gwen started at Scrivens in June of 2019 as a home and auto insurance broker for over 180 clients. Her dedication to building strong relationships with her clients has been on display ever since she joined the team.

Let’s learn a little more about Gwen.

What is your favourite thing about your role?

I love interacting with clients and forming relationships with them because it’s important they feel comfortable when they call.

I try to always remember something personal about each client I work with so we can connect and they know that I value their loyalty.

What do you like most about working at Scrivens?

I love the team spirit and how there is always someone willing to help you if you get stuck. It really feels like a family.

What has been your favourite project at Scrivens?

My favourite project was when I helped out on location at a university residence to get them signed up for tenant insurance. Helping them understand the value of insurance at that age was a great feeling!

What is one career lesson you have learned so far?

Always admit your mistakes—never try to sweep them under the rug. We’re all human and anything can be fixed.

What is your favourite travel destination?

I love Cuba so much that I visit for a week every winter.

Beach at sunset in Cuba

Favourite Quote

"Winners never quit, and quitters never win."

Do you have any pets?

Yes, I have a cat named Stark.

Gwen's cat, Stark

What is your favourite hobby?

I have recently taken up acrylic paint pouring. I love learning new techniques. Each painting is unique.

Collage of Gwen's acrylic paintings


FAQs

What is financial advising?

Financial advising involves providing guidance and advice to individuals, families, or businesses to help them make informed decisions about their financial matters. This can include various aspects such as investment planning, retirement planning, tax planning, estate planning, and more. Financial advisors analyze their clients' financial situations, goals, and risk tolerance to create customized strategies that align with their objectives.

Why is financial planning important?

Financial planning is crucial for several reasons:

Goal Achievement: It helps individuals set and achieve financial goals, whether they are short-term, such as buying a home, or long-term, like funding a comfortable retirement.

Risk Management: Financial planning addresses risks by considering insurance, emergency funds, and other protective measures.

Budgeting and Saving: It promotes responsible money management through budgeting and saving, fostering financial stability.

Wealth Building: Effective financial planning can lead to wealth accumulation and the creation of a secure financial future.

Can financial advisors help with debt?

Yes, financial advisors can help with debt management. They can assess your overall financial situation, create a budget, and develop strategies to pay down debt efficiently. They may also negotiate with creditors on your behalf, provide debt consolidation recommendations, and offer guidance on prioritizing and managing debt repayment.

What exactly does a financial advisor do?

The specific responsibilities of a financial advisor can vary, but generally, they:

  1. Conduct a thorough analysis of a client's financial situation, including income, expenses, assets, and liabilities.
  2. Develop personalized financial plans based on the client's goals, risk tolerance, and time horizon.
  3. Provide investment advice and portfolio management services.
  4. Offer guidance on retirement planning, estate planning, tax planning, and insurance.
  5. Monitor and adjust financial plans as needed based on changes in the client's life or market conditions.
  6. Educate clients on financial matters and empower them to make informed decisions.
What is the average fee for a financial advisor?

The fees charged by financial advisors can vary widely based on factors such as the advisor's experience, the services provided, and the region.

Common fee structures include:

Hourly Fees: Advisors charge an hourly rate for their services.
Flat or Fixed Fees: A set fee is charged for specific services or a comprehensive financial plan.
Asset-based Fees: Fees are a percentage of the assets under management (AUM).
Commission-based Fees: Advisors earn commissions on financial products they sell.
Combination of Fees: Advisors may use a combination of the above fee structures.
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It's important to discuss and clarify fee arrangements with a potential financial advisor before engaging in their services.