If you own a business, large or small, providing an attractive benefits package is one of the keys to retaining great employees. The trick is finding plans that are not only affordable but offer meaningful protection. That’s where David Crabtree of Crabtree Benefits can be an invaluable resource. A former Franklin High School teacher, Crabtree enjoys the arduous task of making the complex understandable. In a recent conversation, he explained how his services make life better for you and your employees as well.
RIGHT TO THE POINT: WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO FORM CRABTREE BENEFITS?
Everything I’ve ever done has been oriented toward helping people. As a teacher, my passion was trying to help students not just grasp knowledge in the classroom but to help prepare them to be responsible young adults. Now it’s about being able to help people allay their fears of the unknown. That’s the protection that insurance provides.
IS THERE AN EXAMPLE OF HOW YOU’RE ABLE TO PROVIDE THAT LEVEL OF PEACE OF MIND?
I’ve had people call and tell me they’ve been diagnosed with cancer and their fear of the financial burden is almost as great as their fear of the disease. It is gratifying to be able to explain how their treatment is going to be covered. When the anxiety over cost is removed, they’re able to focus on recovery. That’s why I go to work every day. I want everyone to be taken care of the same way I want my family to be taken care of.
ARE SMALL BUSINESSES ABLE TO SECURE REASONABLE RATES?
A lot of companies think that the more employees you have, the greater discount you’ll get. But that’s not necessarily the case. There are certain carriers that focus on larger groups while others focus on smaller groups. What I do is identify those carriers that are going to be suitable for the individual client. If you own a small business, even if it’s just a few employees, call me. There’s likely a plan available that makes sense for you.
SPEAKING OF BENEFITS, WHAT IS THE BENEFIT TO THE BUSINESS OWNER WHO CHOOSES TO WORK WITH YOU?
First and foremost is service. I have a saying: ‘Friends don’t let friends call insurance carriers.’ What that means is I’m not going to come in, setup a benefits package and say, ‘See you next year at renewal.’ I’m going to help that business if there are any billing issues or questions. I work with employees too. Many of my clients’ employees call me directly. You’re not calling an 800 number - you’re calling me.
Crabtree Benefits offers group benefits for businesses of all sizes. Products include medical, dental, vision, short- and long-term disability, critical care and life insurance. CrabtreeBenefits.com