Defining high performance
If there was ever an example of how high achievers turn into high performers, Tina Tehranchian might be it.
Her name is well-known, both in the industry, in philanthropic circles and among the financial news-reading public at large. In her practice, Tehranchian is so respected by her clients – inspiring a high level of comfort and confidence – they unhesitatingly recommend her service to their own clients.
I work around the clock, but I enjoy it. It’s all fun.
Her work with the Financial Planning Standards Council (FPSC) is award-winning and noteworthy, as well. Tehranchian was in the very first group of individuals recognised by the FPSC as a fellow, for supporting and advancing the organization’s vision of Canadians getting ahead by engaging with a financial planner. The ultimate achievement, for her, she says is bearing witness to the positive result of having a long relationship with clients.
Outside of the office, Tehranchian also taught personal financial planning at Centennial College for more than 10 years, has served as a governor at Seneca College, as a director at the Markham Board of Trade, JVS of Greater Toronto, and for the Mackenzie Health Foundation. She also chaired the IC Network and served as treasurer of the Encyclopaedia Iranica Foundation. Currently she serves as a trustee of the McMichael Canadian Art Collection, as director of the Fort York Foundation and as a member of the planned giving advisory committee for the Princess Margaret Hospital Foundation.
If this weren’t the work of three mere mortals already, she also produces an annual “Joy of Aging” event which draws several hundred women every year, to a conference which raises funds for the Mackenzie Health Foundation.
“This is the fun stuff that I do,” she says. “I work around the clock, but I enjoy it. It’s all fun. Once you enjoy it, it’s good.”
The efforts have resulted in several volunteer and service awards over the years. Professionally, this high achievement started early too, with awards for being the most outstanding graduate student in her year, not to mention the “quick start” and professional sales awards she began to earn in her very first year in the industry as a representative with Metropolitan Life.
Labour-intensive
Her early experience does not appear to be forgotten, either. She points out it can be difficult for young women to get into the business, simply because the most labour-intensive, early years generally coincide with the time many are raising young families.
“The hours are brutal especially in the early years of the business,” she says. “But it’s also a business that gives you the flexibility to maneuver around your child’s schedule. A regular 9:00-5:00 job would not have given me that sort of flexibility.”
She credits a lot of her early success to the support of her family, her husband, and wonderful babysitters. “You have to be prepared for long hours of work. You have to be supported by your family, for sure.”
Following that, she recommends anyone new to the industry invest in good coaches, find a good mentor, and have a clear picture of where they want to be in 20 years.
