Every month, Schwartz Insurance Group selects a peer-nominated associate to receive a Core Value Award. The winner is chosen because they "lived" one of our agency's core values - typically an event or accomplishment above and beyond the call of duty in serving our customers. This month, Matt Schwartz has "lived" our core value of "Success Will Come."
Here's his story:
What company wouldn’t appreciate an advisor who goes to bat for them when they receive unexpected news of the worst kind?
When a client received a DECLINE on their benefits renewal, Matt Schwartz flew into action and pulled off a miracle: he successfully negotiated with the carrier to change their decision and find a solution to the issue.
Matt has proven he will go the extra mile to provide exemplary service to his benefits clients – especially when they are in trouble. He firmly believes that hard work, patience and persistence will guarantee that “Success Will Come.”
Here, in his own words, is a little more information about Matt:
Your father, the late, great Neil “Buddy” Schwartz, founded the agency back in 1956. What’s the most important value he instilled in you that helps you carry on his legacy today?
Take care of people and everything else will take care of itself. This has applied in our business life with customers, companies and associates. We want to do what’s right – that not only helps us sleep at night, it also always works out for the best!
Let’s pretend that you never entered the insurance field after college. What career path did you choose?
I think I coulda/shoulda been a rock ‘n' roll star. But, alas, that’s a tough peak to climb so I’ll simply go with some other “relationship based heavily on numbers” role, like a money manager. The ability to maintain focus and trust despite chaotic circumstances is a unique skillset.
You love to travel. Out of all the countries you’ve visited over the years, which one of them is your favorite vacation spot?
In short, I love visiting off-the-grid places, where I can be reminded that people everywhere love to connect and I can connect with anyone, despite differences in the culture or language. Being up in a “lost” village in the mountains of Peru was my latest experience and latest joy. It is a smaller (and safer) world when you come to realize that we are all more similar than we are different.
“Rock and roll ain’t noise pollution.” Which rock band gets your vote for being the best of all time?
The Stones are an easy favorite, but I can’t ignore the creative talent of The Beatles.
Tell us about the pastime you love the most.
I enjoy virtually any “experience” with friends or family. That could be a party, a game, a concert or an adventure of sorts. I love creating vivid memories from unique and fun experiences.
It’s time to brag about your family. Tell us why your kids make you proud.
Bradley is a junior in college. He’s independent, directed (usually) and actively doing good things for other people through his TOM:Vanderbilt initiative. Carly is a senior in high school, on the edge of a college decision. She’s strong, diligent and a clear leader among her peers. She has great things ahead of her. My wife, Cindy, is a wonderful mother and partner. She enjoys volunteering with underprivileged kids, helping them learn to read, teaching them English - or simply helping them realize that others care. I’m a lucky guy!
Congratulations on your Core Value Award, Matt - and thank you for doing such an excellent job as CEO of Schwartz Insurance Group.