This month we sat down with Investment Advisor Representative, Steven Tornatore, Independent Representative for World Financial Group in the centerco office suites business community. Meet Steven! 

What does your business do? 

” World Financial Group markets financial products to individuals and businesses. I am an independent business owner, not an employee. We all get 1099s instead of W2s. 

I meet with individuals, families and business owners for no charge and do a financial needs analysis which includes six areas: Cash flow analysis, debt analysis, proper protection (which is insurance), short term savings, retirement savings and estate planning. I will meet with anyone, regardless of how much they are worth financially.  Our debt analyzer is used to determine the most efficient way to eliminate debt. 

Then I ask them what are their goals, when do they want to retire? We then determine which products would be the best for their needs. We have nearly 100  different companies that we partner with in order to take care of our clients.  In fact, we write more business for Nationwide than Nationwide writes for themselves.”

What do you wish you had known when you first started out? 

“In my twenties, I was in the restaurant business, I had two restaurants in St. Louis. I wish I had known more about money, about investing and how it all works.” 

What advice do you have for someone who is considering starting their own business? 

“I would say do your research. It’s best to do something you enjoy but you should know your earning potential upfront.  I would suggest trying to find a niche; for instance our niche is Baby Boomers who are getting ready to retire. Also, figure out what it is going to take in terms of money and time. I would also suggest that you interview people who are already successful in the industry.” 

What are some of the biggest challenges of having a small business? 

“Its really important to try to find some work/life balance. When I was in the restaurant business, I worked 80 hours a week, but I still found time to spend with my wife and children. You really have to be great at time management and prioritizing how you spend it.” 

What do you appreciate about Centerco Office Suites? 

“It’s an affordable space and the location is great. You are right by highway 270 and in the center of St. Louis, and my clients usually have no problem finding the building. The staff and tenants here really are great, there is a lot of networking that goes on between the tenants. You also have a lot of tenant appreciation and networking events. I like the reception area and the lounge, and I appreciate having access to the conference rooms. You have a lot of amenities for the price.”