Ensure Inc., a Barrington-based independent insurance agency, was founded by Monika Lajewska 10 years ago. Her career in the industry started in 2005 when she began at another agency.
“Where I started from was really the very bottom,” Lajewska says. “I was helping with personal lines and commercial businesses. I learned a lot with time, by reading insurance policies and assisting with claims. I became more involved and committed to this business as time passed, however after 10 years I felt like I had hit a ceiling. It was time for a change.”
What happened next? “My family and friends pushed me into this adventure of having my own agency,” she said. We caught up with Monika recently to learn more about her life and career. This transcript has been edited for length.
SW Lake: How many employees are currently working for you?
Monika Lajewska: We have 11 great individuals eager to assist and support clients with their insurance needs, present options, and allow our clients to make informed decisions.
SWL: How would you describe the agency?
ML: We are a boutique agency that was launched to specialize in transportation accounts, but we’ve expanded to provide other commercial products, as well as personal lines like home and auto. Because we are independent, we shop around for the best products possible tailored for the client’s needs. It’s not always about the price, but instead the policy. We feel obligated to give clients options, so they know what is covered and what is not included.
SWL: What’s your educational background?
ML: I have a master’s degree in mathematics from Warsaw University in Poland. For continuing education, I belong to industry groups and attend conferences with multiple insurance carriers and wholesale brokers to stay on top of changes.
SWL: Can you tell us about your childhood?
ML: I grew up in Poland where we were not poor but never rich. My parents were hard workers who emphasized that my siblings and I got a good education. In the summer we spent time at Grandma’s away from the city. I really cherish my small-town memories as kids with the freedom of running around, playing with cousins and taking care of one another. When we wanted a snack Grandma made us the best sandwiches, crispy bread with butter and fresh sliced tomato straight from the garden or bread with sour cream and a sprinkling of sugar.
SWL: If you weren’t an entrepreneur, what would you be doing instead?
ML: I’ve thought about this before. Perhaps I’d be a missionary. It has always felt like I’ve been called to serve others. I don’t really associate the word entrepreneur with myself.
SWL: When you are not working—or spending time with family—what do you like to do?
ML: I love travel, sailing, gardening and being rather outdoorsy. Spending time in my garden quiets my mind and I get to see instant results from my work. It’s very satisfying.
SWL: You mentioned traveling. What’s your favorite place to visit?
ML: I love sun and warm places… but each place I travel to brings back great memories. I will not hide that Africa, and the Serengeti plains are a special place for me. It was a dream come true to visit there.
SWL: Can you share with us your goals for Ensure?
ML: We want to maintain the quality of the service we provide while always seeking ways for improvement. Don’t be lost in the drift of rush and routine. We want to help others in need and give back to the community. The market is changing rapidly right now. In the home insurance market carriers are tightening their rules with all the catastrophic events happening. Our goal is to make sure our clients stay informed of the changes. Overall, I am optimistic. Sure, the market must adjust as it has in the past. Through history change is constant and it’s how we adapt to the evolving circumstances that define us as humans.
Learn more about Ensure Inc. by visiting yourensure.com or call 847.316.9933 to schedule a no-obligation policy review.