West Chester Small Business Spotlight: Terri Smith Insurance Agency

WEST CHESTER, PA — This week we're taking a look at a unique local small business: Terri Smith Insurance Agency, LLC.

Business: Terri Smith Insurance Agency, LLC

Owner: Terri Smith

Website: Allstate.com/TerriSmith

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Terri...

What business are you in?

"I own an Allstate agency and am an Exclusive Allstate Agent and Personal Financial Representative."

Why start a business in this town?

"I live in Berwyn and I love West Chester and Chester County."

What’s the most difficult challenge you’ve faced as a business owner?

"Different days bring different challenges. Increasing costs of all things a small business needs are sometimes difficult to anticipate, like when your landlord sends you an unexpected $4000 increase in common area costs, or when even your own accountant can't explain what a specific tax is and why you are expected to pay it, or the costs of increasing security for your clients' personal data, which always has to come as the top priority. Costs are best when anticipated and planned for, and sometimes life just throws stuff at you. A small business owner has to learn to adapt."

What’s been your proudest achievement since opening?

"Ranking in the top six percent of all Allstate agents nationwide in customer service survey results. That is a rush for my team and for me."

How does your business give back to the community?

"I have participated actively in the community by serving on boards, most lately the Chester County Bar Foundation whose mission is to "to help Chester County citizens understand, gain access to and benefit from our legal system. Additionally, this summer we are offering free educational workshops on wills, trusts, life insurance, and other insurance as well as financial security. Call to reserve your seat or pick up a free emergency kit. We would love to help you, too."

Know a local business that deserves the spotlight? Let us know! Email justin.heinze@patch.com.

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