New Member Profile- Edward Jones: Shiloh Powers
We recently had the opportunity to do a digital interview with one of our newest members, Shiloh Powers, of Edward Jones: Shiloh Powers. We asked how she got her start, what keeps her going and what she loves about the Springfield/Eugene Area. Check it out!
What is the Heart of Edward Jones? What Got You Into the Field?
Edward Jones was built for clients and our purpose is to make a difference in their lives and the lives of their family. I became a Financial Advisor after 6 years of working as a High School Math teacher because I wanted to teach a subject that could change someone’s live. I have always had a passion for helping people and found that I could make a huge impact by working with individuals and families to understand and plan their financial future.
What Does Your Edward Jones Office Do Best?
While all of the Edward Jones offices offer the same basic services such as retirement planning, paying for education, and estate considerations we all have a different approach. I focus on the educational aspect and take the time to help my clients fully understand their options so they can make well informed decisions. I also have a passion for working with women facing major life transitions such as divorce, losing a spouse, having a child or getting ready to retire.
Why Did You Choose to Open Shop in Eugene/Springfield?
I finished my undergraduate and graduate degrees at the University of Oregon and have always loved the area. I knew wanted to build my career and raise my family here eventually. I took some time to live in Morocco and travel the world after 4 years of teaching in Springfield. When I returned to the states, I knew that I wanted to come back to my home here in Eugene.
Have You Learned Anything Exciting or Unusual About the Springfield/Eugene Area?
Since my return to the Eugene/Springfield Area I have been much more involved with the business community than I was as a teacher. I have been blown away by how many amazing people I have met and how everyone I have spoken to in the Eugene and Springfield Chambers has one common goal, “I just want to help people”.
Are There Any Specific Times in Life That People Should Seek Financial Advice?
Many people seek out financial advice when they are facing a major life change such as getting an inheritance or retiring which is fantastic but we can help with so much more. A major component of what I do is to help families create a personalized financial strategy to build and protect their wealth. We can help those families that are at the beginning of their financial journey to set them up for success down the road. If someone is wanting help with getting their finances organized and creating a strategy to help them reach their goals, it is a great time to seek out an advisor.
Are There Any Surprisingly Common Financial Blind Spots, or Pitfalls?
Absolutely! I would say that one major blind spot is budgeting and cashflow. Even if someone has a large income, they may still be living paycheck to paycheck. The amount of money you need to live on each month can drastically change the amount of savings you need for retirement. Sometimes simple changes can make a huge difference when it comes to cashflow and enable someone to break free of the paycheck to paycheck cycle. I make sure to discuss cashflow and budgeting with all of my clients regardless of their level of wealth.
What Does the Future Hold for Your Office?
As a former teacher, my passion lies in education. My office is working hard to offer free seminars and workshops to those that need it most. We have started partnering with local businesses to provide free financial education to their employees around how to best utilize their employer plan and started talking to non-profits to see how we may help their clients through education. I hope to keep expanding these offerings as a way to give back to the great community we’re in.
Big thanks to Shiloh for sharing her story with us, providing some financial insights and helping us get to know her business a little better! Check out her site to request an appointment or find out more.