Years at company: 9 years
College: University of Dallas, 2001
Organizations: Independent Insurance Agents, International Standards Organization

What do you see as your biggest strength in this industry?
I can explain insurance terms and coverages to customers. So many times we take for granted that our customers might not understand the insurance vocabulary that we use—and they might be too shy to say so. I really try to explain things in understandable terms while not losing the importance of the contract.

What was the biggest challenge you faced as a young agent?
It was challenging to get up to speed with the technical knowledge of insurance policies. I handled it by attending classroom education sessions.

What are some of your career highlights?
I arranged for a shipping container to be delivered to the parking lot at an industry convention. I gave a presentation inside the container on container shipping best practices. It was well attended!

How does your office reflect how you work?
Our office is a very open space. We have no cubicles. Our agents are arranged in teams with CSRs. It may get a little loud sometimes, but the exchange of information that occurs is worth it. I also have a desk that can move from a sitting position to a standing position. When standing I can easily walk to another desk to discuss an issue—or run for a cup of coffee.

Have you ever experienced any “generation gap” issues with your carriers?
Early in my career, I dealt with an underwriter in London who refused to use email and would only use the fax machine. He said that he valued the exercise he received when walking over to the fax machine.

How can employers retain young talent?
We make great effort to show that there is more value for the employees than just the digits on their paychecks. This includes typical benefits such as healthcare, but also benefits that might not be at the top of their minds, such as professional education and unique experiences that will advance their career. We even offer covered parking!

Special Reports /

nGI: Adam Rekerdres, CIC, ACI

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