First Vice President,
Homestreet InsuranceAgency
Spokane, Wash.

Years at company: 14

What goes around comesaround
Right out of high school, I applied to aP.O. Box number for an administrative assistant and file position.This was for a local insurance agency, and I started at that joband over the years moved up to CSR, agent and then to manager. Igive credit to everyone who provided me with knowledge. I justhired a receptionist, and she has realized how interesting theinsurance industry can be and she already is pursuing her license.I was lucky enough to have someone take the time to teach me, andnow I have the same opportunity to pass that knowledge to someoneelse. It's come full circle. A lot of young people don't know thatinsurance is a viable option for employment, and I'd like to getinvolved with high schools and speak about the industry.

Turning challenges intostrengths
As a younger woman, sometimes I don'tget taken seriously in this industry. A lot of people haveassistants that are females, so they assume that I must beassisting someone. It can be a constant battle to be takenseriously. But my achievements— and fulfilling promises—impresspeople. I see it as my biggest strength that I am a successfulwoman. I tell young women in this industry to take advantage ofevery opportunity, and to have confidence in your abilities.

Ms. Power goes to Washington
Ipreviously served as the representative of IIABA's Young AgentCommittee for the state of Washington. Young agents are starting torealize how important it is to donate their money toInsurPAC—IIABA's political action committee fund—and to be involvedin legislative issues. It's costing more and more money each yearto represent us in the right manner in the Capitol. Young agentsare the future, and if we don't support the PAC, how else can weensure that our issues are important and up front and personal tothe insurance commissioners?

Always be closing
My husband saysI have a sales person in me that I can't get rid of—I'm alwaystrying to negotiate and sell. I think young agents need to learn tobe adaptable. One box doesn't fit every customer: The specificpolicies and coverages that work for one, might not work for thenext client. Take a fresh mindset to each situation. Through theIIABA, I've met people who have given me strategies forcross-selling and ideas for new programs. And in turn, I referclients whose risks I might not be able to place.