Karen True Winslow
For Karen True Winslow, mentoring is about teaching values.
Ms. Winslow, a financial consultant with Wintergreen Financial Group in Portland, Maine, has been a Big Sister to 16-year-old Stephanie, a native of Chile, for seven years.
They see each other about once a week and do ordinary things—shopping, cooking, attending sports events. Both have benefited from the relationship. "The most rewarding part is that you can see a direct result from your efforts—I've seen improvements in her behavior and her confidence levels," Ms. Winslow said.
"I've taught her different values," she said. "The biggest is that the family unit should be a support network. I included her in family trips and vacations. I wanted her to see that families can get along."
"I also showed her than hard work pays off—she's watched me grown my business, and buy and fix up a house. And I've been teaching her about vocational preparation—learning about what's important for work, such as math and communications skills."
Ms. Winslow said the same qualities apply to both mentors and financial advisors.
"Compassion and tolerance for others' opinions, such as clients' goals and what they want to do with their money. I find myself in counseling situations often."
"Good family values—clients want to know you understand them so you can help them leave a legacy."
"Loyalty—clients want to know you're always going to be there. I hope I'll be the first one they call, just like with Stephanie."
Featured Advisors' Stories
