These days, most industries struggle to recruit and retain the next generation of employees. How do you get them interested in the insurance industry? How can we make the industry more attractive to the youth? Here are some strategies: Avoid generalizations There’s a...
Currently, the U.S. Department of Labor is accepting comments on a proposed regulation to determine whether an independent contractor is an independent contractor for purposes of the Fair Labor Standards Act. It’s the latest step in the DOL’s efforts to roll back the...
Owning a small business has never been easy. However, in today’s highly competitive and increasingly crowded global marketplace the challenges are more formidable than perhaps ever before. That means that if you want your agency not just to survive but to thrive, then...
It would be an understatement to say that the devastating spread of COVID-19—and industry’s collective reaction thereto—has prompted a seismic shift in how corporations intend to operate in the post-pandemic era. One particularly notable pivot is that toward staff...
Automation plays a significant role in our lives. Of course, much of it is technology based. Moreover, it is a central driver within our professional, independent insurance agencies. It helps agency owners and employees work smarter. Done right, it saves us time and...
“What do you do?” We have heard that question a thousand times. It is one of those standard conversation pieces along with: “What do you think of this weather?” and “How about that local sports team!” Every time you meet someone new, it is a virtual guarantee that you...
The opening line of William Shakespeare’s Richard III is an oft-quoted line—often used to express sadness. You know, how you feel when another agency agreement comes across your desk. I know that agency agreements are no one’s favorite thing. You would much rather...
The importance of good organizational structure cannot be overstated when it comes to businesses that run smoothly and profitably. There are several approaches to organizational structure for your business. When evaluating your options—from team-based to hierarchical...
The New York Department of Financial Services celebrated the five-year anniversary of 23 NYCRR 500—commonly referred to as the DFS Cyber Security Regulation—with amendments to that regulation. The DFS has released a pre-proposal for comment. Here is what is in this...
What can make your agency unique or different? Why should an individual or family do business with your agency instead of another one within a 20-minute driving radius? Are your products and services wildly different from your local or internet competitors? For many...
