Navigating the world of insurance isn’t always simple but searching for an appropriate policy that’s fit for purpose doesn’t need to be complicated. With the help of our advisers, you can be assured that what you’re getting works for your situation. If you’ve been wondering what it’s like to work with a Financial Adviser, we had a chat with our National Insurance Lead, Willie Moala, where he dives into his day-to-day responsibilities, dispelling common myths and what you can do to ensure you’re fully equipped for when the unexpected happens.
What do you do day-to-day as a national insurance lead?
As the national insurance lead for AdviceFirst, no day is the same. At its core, I support our Advisers in being the best they can be by offering technical knowledge and mentorship. I also work closely with stakeholders, such as clients, suppliers, and other business leaders.
Why insurance?
A person’s financial resilience is only truly tested when something goes wrong. More often than not, those without any personal insurance are impacted the most (when things go wrong). You don’t have to look very far to see these examples of hardship being played out over and over again. The many Givealittle pages asking for financial support highlight the many things that can go wrong and the financial impact that can have on a family or individual.
One story that has stuck with me throughout my career is the very first claim I supported a client through back in 2012. Sadly, they were diagnosed with cancer, but the process indeed highlighted to me how impactful a financial adviser’s work can be. If it hadn’t been for that client’s foresight to take out a policy and our help to ensure the policy was the right fit, their situation for themselves and their family could have been very different. While these experiences are bittersweet, they emphasise just how essential this work is.
Debunk the worst myth you hear about insurance.
The biggest myth I often hear is that insurers don’t pay, which is a significant and harmful myth.
As someone who has worked in the industry for 15 years, having worked for both an insurer and an advisory firm, this myth could not be further from the truth. The number of claims I have seen insurers pay out over this period is vast, and not only that, but I’ve regularly seen insurers go above and beyond to get claims paid. This is a common occurrence across the board.
The most important thing is to seek advice to ensure the policy you take out fits your situation.
If could have dinner with anyone you like, who would it be and why?
My grandmother. She is by far one of my biggest inspirations in life and sadly passed away a few years ago.
Hobbies outside of work?
I love to travel locally and abroad with my family; we’re actually off to the US later this year. I also love to support my sports teams (the ABs, Hurricanes, and the Warriors!), spend time with my extended family and friends, and hike across New Zealand. I recently ticked off a bucket list adventure by completing the Routeburn Track.
What are the top things clients should be aware of when searching for personal insurance?
The best thing you can do is seek advice from a qualified Financial Adviser before purchasing any kind of personal insurance. Navigating the world of personal insurance can feel daunting and complicated, and it’s the people who take out personal insurance without seeking qualified financial advice that discover what they thought they had isn’t fit for purpose, often realising this when it’s too late (at claim time).
Working with a financial adviser is seamless, takes the guesswork out of what you should be getting, and the advice you receive often comes at zero cost.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve received?
I love the quote ‘Be Where Your Feet Are’.
