2016 Trusted Advisers Insurance Agent: John Piatchek

John Piatchek has helped more than 1,000 individuals and businesses with their insurance needs.

He has written hundreds of millions of dollars in life insurance to protect his clients’ survivors – widows, orphans and business partners – most of whom have little idea how much care and effort he and his clients invest in planning for them.

“Many have already reaped the benefits of this planning, and there are many more to come,” says Piatchek, who has offered insurance and financial services through Piatchek & Associates Inc. since 1972.

“I think it’s because I take the time to really understand their goals and needs and to see the direct benefit to these wonderful people and to help them also see those benefits that I have been so successful in this pursuit I truly love.”

One of the most important parts of his job is to ask questions and listen carefully to the answers. When clients are apprehensive and don’t know where to start the conversation, Piatchek is there to lead.

“I consult with them, lead them through an organized thought process and then, as their adviser, I don’t just tell them the things they want to hear,” he says. “I challenge them on the tough character decisions needed to protect their families and businesses and to achieve their goals.”

The rewards of his work may take years to fully appreciate, but Piatchek says the effort is always worth it. When a long-term client died this year and he met with her daughters, they thanked him for the care and consideration he showed their mother. Piatchek had devised a steady income for her after the death of her husband on whom she had been dependent for everything.

“They thanked me profusely and told me that their mom always says I was the first person to call if something ever happened to her and that she would never make any financial decisions without talking to me first,” he says. “I was reminded that the help we give our clients every day on matters both large and small really can add up to a big difference in their lives.”

Angela Smith knows this firsthand.

“I am fortunate to have known John for more than 20 years, and I can honestly say that some of his words of wisdom ignited the entrepreneurial spirit and confidence I needed to open my business in 2000,” says Smith, founder, owner and president of ADsmith Communications Inc. “The insurance and planning advice he provides his clients allows business owners like me to sleep soundly at night, knowing John has a plan in place for any circumstance that could arise.”

Piatchek’s civic involvement is extensive.

He has served on the Greater Ozarks Chapter of the American Red Cross board, as board chairman for Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Ozarks Inc. and as board president for Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Ozarks and Boys & Girls Club of Springfield.