Helping people at every step: Cora Tschetters’ journey with Haddad Financial
Success, for Cora Tschetters, has never been about numbers—it’s about people
Choosing the right employee benefits can make all the difference for a small business. The right plan helps retain quality staff, attracts new talent, and creates a happier workplace. That said, figuring out what works best is not always simple. That is where Cora Tschetters steps in.
In this conversation, Cora shares her career path, the lessons she has learned, and the values that guide her work—a genuine look at both her expertise and the heart behind it.
Let’s start with your background. How did you first get into this line of work?
I actually started out in advertising sales. I worked in that industry for 17 years and before that I sold cars. So really, I’ve always been in sales of some kind. But at one point I made the switch into financial advising and insurance. That was a huge learning curve because, unlike advertising sales, this is 100% commission. When you first start out, you don’t have clients, so it’s tough. I was working 14- to 16-hour days in the beginning, building up my book of business. Over time, as you grow your client base, you start to earn trail fees from the insurance companies, which helps stabilize income.
That must have been quite a transition.
It was. But I’ve always been willing to tackle new things head-on. What made it easier was working with my dad and my sister at the time. My dad, of course, had a long-standing reputation in the business, so I had great mentors. I learned the ins and outs of building benefit plans, what’s important for clients, and how to really listen to what they need. It’s a lot different from selling ads. It’s much more custom and personal.
Tell me a bit about your dad’s role in all this.
My dad, Tony, has been in the insurance industry for decades and has helped countless businesses and families. Joining him in the business was a natural step, and it allowed me to carry on the family legacy in a way. He has such a strong reputation in the community, and I learned a lot from him about looking after clients properly and building relationships.
So your work now is focused on benefits and insurance?
Yes. I help both individuals and businesses with their insurance needs. For businesses, that’s often employee benefit plans. For individuals, it might be life insurance, mortgage coverage, extended health, or dental. Every client’s needs are different, so it’s about tailoring the right plan for them.
Is that where the Chamber Plan comes in?
Exactly. The Chamber Plan is one of the options for businesses. It’s a group benefits plan available to Chamber of Commerce members. It renews every April 1st, regardless of when you sign up, since it’s an association plan. The nice thing is that even if you’re not a current Chamber member, you can become one to access it. It’s really designed to support small and medium-sized businesses that want to offer competitive benefits.
Why are benefits so important for businesses right now?
Employee retention. It’s tough for businesses, especially in the Elk Valley, where they’re competing with the mines for workers. A good benefits plan can make all the difference when you’re trying to keep loyal staff or attract new ones. If two jobs offer the same pay but only one has benefits, people are going to choose the one with the benefits. It gives businesses a real competitive edge.
Cora Tschetters rides in a reining demonstration at the Calgary Stampede grounds, where horse and rider work together to perform spins, circles, and sliding stops.
Makes sense. Now, outside of work, I hear you have a passion for horses?
Yes! Horses are my escape. I love riding and caring for them, it’s my way of relaxing and staying grounded. Animals have always been a big part of my life. In fact, when I was younger, I thought I might become a vet. I even worked at a local vet clinic in high school, but I quickly realized it wasn’t for me. The hardest part was dealing with the loss of animals and comforting their owners. That was something I just couldn’t do long-term. So I’m glad I didn’t spend years in school for that path. Instead, I’ve stuck with sales and helping people in another way.
You’ve really done it all when it comes to sales.
Pretty much! But at the end of the day, whether it’s cars, advertising, or insurance, it’s all about helping people. That’s what keeps me motivated.
Looking ahead, what’s the future for Haddad Financial Services?
For me, it’s about continuing to provide for businesses and families, whether through benefits or personal insurance. I like what I do, and I’m not planning on retiring anytime soon. As long as I’m healthy, I’ll keep working. The flexibility is great, and I love being able to help people.
That’s wonderful. Is there anything you’d like to add?
Just that if you’re looking at benefits or personal insurance, give me a call at 250-464-0878. I’m always happy to sit down and go over options.
At their office, Licensed Insurance Advisor Cora Tschetters and administrator Sherry Ogilvie are ready to help businesses design employee benefits that truly support their teams.
Why employee benefits matter for local businesses
In today’s competitive job market, attracting and retaining quality staff is one of the biggest challenges for small and medium-sized businesses, especially in the Kootenays, where companies often compete with higher-paying industries like the mines.
Offering an employee benefits plan can give local businesses a crucial edge. Benefits such as extended health, dental, vision, and disability coverage make a workplace more attractive to current and potential employees. A good plan shows staff that their employer values them, which builds loyalty, reduces turnover, and saves businesses the cost and disruption of constantly retraining new hires.
This is where Cora Tschetters at Haddad Financial comes in. With years of experience designing customized benefit packages, Cora understands the unique needs of both employers and employees in our region. She helps businesses compare options, control costs, and implement plans—such as the Chamber Plan—that are tailored to fit their size and industry.
Her expertise ensures that business owners don’t just check a box, but actually get a benefits solution that supports their team and strengthens their bottom line.
Check out the services Haddad Financial has available, including:
- Employee Group Benefits
- Personal Insurance
- Corporate Insurance
- Group RRSPs
