CW: How did the both of you decide to go into business together?
Grayson (daughter): “My parents have been in insurance since 1983. After college, I was truly unsure which career path I wanted to take, so I started off by working that summer as a receptionist in the office. I slowly started to learn the industry and knew it was something I was passionate about. I think that continuing to grow the Schirmer Insurance Group name was what excited me the most.”
Gina (mom): “When you work in an industry for 30-plus years, building and building, you do it every day because you like it, and something is driving you inside to push forward and be better every day. We instinctively long for that business to grow forward, and our children would naturally bring that ongoing mentality and commitment to our vision. It is so rewarding and such an honor to be able to watch the newness and the vibrancy with which they all work.”
CW: How have this past year’s challenges changed you?
Grayson: “I think that this past year has been extremely difficult yet eye-opening in many ways. Personally, it has taught me to be extremely thankful for every day we are faced with and to not take anything for granted. Professionally, it has shown me that our team has the ability to work remotely together and still stay connected as if we were working in the office together.”
Gina: “The last year has given us incredible insight into how our team can successfully and efficiently adapt to change. For me, I have been forced to take my not-so-hot tech skills to the next level. I love to learn new things, so I have made myself open-minded to learning and trying new technology every week. The challenges of the last year have shown us all that no matter the conditions, we can accomplish anything.”
CW: Mom, what have you learned from your daughter?
Gina: “Grayson teaches me something new weekly, but one of the things I love is when she says, ‘Breathe, Mom.’ When you take a breather and find patience, you are infused with a great kindness toward others. When I feel overwhelmed, I can think of her genuine spirit and breathe, and I am a kinder individual. Working with her daily reminds me how blessed I am, and that makes me most thankful.”
CW: Daughter, what have you learned from your mom?
Grayson: “My mom has taught me that loving what you do every day drives your success and to always put your family first.”
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Schirmer Insurance Group: Focused on Individual Insurance Needs & Finding Solid Solutions
Gina Schirmer, CEO of Schirmer Insurance Group LLC