Martina Gantenbein: “I am pragmatic, versatile and efficient.”

What’s it like to work for Swiss Life?

My work often doesn’t feel like work at all – it’s more like a passion. I am constantly meeting interesting people and am able to support them through various phases of their lives. My customers trust me when it comes to financial and personal issues, and I support them with advice and assistance.

At Swiss Life, no two days are the same. I plan my day myself so I can balance my job with my family life. My day-to-day work is supported by a friendly and cooperative team and by regularly exchanging information and ideas with colleagues and line managers – and I have even made some great friends. And there’s also the unforgettable team events (laughs)! The atmosphere at work is just right for me. I very rarely have bad days.

What did you do before joining Swiss Life?

It was a classic change of career. After completing my apprenticeship as a pharmacy assistant and working in a pharmacy, I wanted to change sector. I came across a job advertisement for a pensions advisor at Swiss Life. To be honest, I didn’t even know what Swiss Life did at the time and went into the interview completely unprepared. But as you can see, it worked out fine – I got the job. Then I trained as a pensions advisor and I now know exactly what Swiss Life does. My regional head at the time and the General Agent were very supportive. I have been able to complete many other training courses during my career and I also worked as a sales manager for a while.
 

What do you like most about your job?

I really like getting positive feedback from people. I recently received a message from a couple that I helped with their retirement 13 years ago. They thanked me that everything worked out perfectly for them as a result of my planning and that they are able to enjoy their retirement without any financial worries. This sort of feedback confirms my belief that I am in the right job.

I love the variety in my job. I support my customers through various life events – some beautiful, but also some tragic. I find it very important to be able to provide financial and pension support, particularly when it comes to difficult issues.

What has been your biggest success as an advisor so far?

For me, success does not consist of one single event. It’s the many little things that motivate me every day: every satisfied customer, every problem sorted out and every financial worry resolved. These moments of success drive me to do my best.

What would your advice to future applicants be?

When you start, you should be open and curious. If you like people, if you are compassionate and empathetic, you will do well in this job. It’s important to know that the job requires a lot of self-discipline. But thanks to the flexible way of working, it’s possible to do it really well.

What do you do in your spare time?

Most of all, I like to spend time with my family. Cycle tours, hiking, concerts, excursions, skiing in winter and heading to a lake or swimming pool in summer – I like to be active and outdoors. I especially love being on and in the water. I am an active person and regularly do sport, such as bodypump or pilates. Last year, my friends surprised me with a wakesurfing lesson for my birthday and I discovered a new passion. I have fun doing most things (laughs).

I am very sociable and enjoy travelling with my friends. Having a nice meal and enjoying a glass of wine, preferably in a pub by the lake, for example at Fischers Fritz.

Travelling with my family is another passion of mine. We love exploring cities and beaches. Florida is one of our favourite destinations. And when I need a moment to myself, I like to retreat into a book.

What does self-determination mean for you?

For me, self-determination means shaping my life the way I like it. And it means being healthy and not having any financial worries. If I can enjoy my life, that is what pure self-determination is for me.

image source: Philip Brand, Video: Roland Kessler