For Jeffrey Grady, success in business requires a personal touch.
An agent at Farmers Insurance since they came into New Jersey in 2011, Grady has operated out of Maple Shade for six years.
Now vice president of the Maple Shade Business Association, Grady said he joined to be more active in the community.
“I think the biggest challenge that we face is getting people to realize just how great Maple Shade is to do business in,” he said. “It is very easy and the residents are extremely loyal and, most of all, down-to-earth people.”
Grady said he became an insurance agent “by accident.
“I owned and operated restaurants for most of my adult life, then I ran two race tracks on the west coast; horse racing,” he said. Grady was transferred back into New Jersey and was looking for a different career “and insurance hit me.”
He said he would “absolutely” recommend Maple shade to everyone looking to open a business in the town because it is a “great place to do business in.
“The residents are very friendly,” Grady said. “I had the pick to open in any town in the state and I chose Maple Shade.”
Now a resident of Delran for 19 years, Grady grew up in Upper Darby, Pa., where he graduated from Upper Darby High School.
So, what’s unique about Grady’s employer?
“We have a hands-on approach,” he said. “I worked in industries that demanded lots of hours and (the need to be) people oriented.
“That separates me from the others,” Grady continued. “You call my office and you will get a return call that day.”
He said the most important thing he’s learned when it comes to business is treating people with respect and fostering constant communication.
“Treat people the way you want to be treated,” Grady said.