Garrett Droege Continues Young Agent Discussion - nGI

What's your mantra for success?
I live by two quotes, "What you are is what you have been.  What you'll be is what you do now. – Buddha"  and , "Be the ball, Danny. – Ty Webb, Caddyshack"
 
How do you balance work and personal life? 
The line is somewhat blurred, as I work with my father-in-law. But, I make sure that both parts of my life receive the necessary focus. I don't think we are in an era where the two can be separated. But, if there's one thing Gen-Y is good at, it's multitasking.  
 
What is an important lesson you learned when joining a professional working environment? 
I learned a long time ago that you are respectful to everyone you deal with and that communication is critical for healthy relationships. Your co-workers have to trust you and know that you care about them, not just yourself.

Many young agents enter this industry because other family members work in insurance. What advice do you have when working with family? 
It's hard sometimes. But, both parties need to agree on how the personal relationship will play into the business relationship. Personally, I don't want to be treated any differently than any other employee.

What do you see young agents struggle with in their first years in this industry? What advice do you have? 
Time management is critical. That's been my biggest struggle. You have to prioritize and make yourself lists. Otherwise, things can fall through the cracks.

Who do you look toward as a mentor in this industry?
I look at people like Scott Addis and Roger Sitkins and see the possibility of what our job can be. These guys take it to another level, and are true ambassadors of the insurance industry.

Read on for more from Garrett Droege

How do you balance work and personal life?
The line is somewhat blurred, as I work with my father-in-law. But, I make sure that both parts of my life receive the necessary focus. I don't think we are in an era where the two can be separated. But, if there's one thing Gen-Y is good at, it's multitasking.

How does your office reflect how you work?
Since my work can be done from anywhere, my office is essentially at my fingertips at any point. My physical office looks like a train wreck, but I understand the order amid the chaos.

What do you see Gen Y/Millennials struggle with in a professional environment? What advice do you have?
We have the reputation of being lazy and complaining too much. Playing against the stereotype is tough sometimes. You simply have to prove to everyone (not just your superiors) that you are willing to work hard and be accountable.

Where do you hope to take your career? What direction would you like your career to go?
I have big aspirations for where I think I can go. I'm probably a bit too confident in my abilities, but I think I can have an impact not just within my agency but also within the industry as a whole.

Gen Ys often change jobs—7 times in their 20s, according to research. How can employers retain young talent?
You retain younger employees by giving them freedom to do the job. The destination may be the same, but the journey can differ. We are the Nintendo generation and there are many ways to win the game.

What was the biggest challenge you faced in 2010 as a young agent, and how did you handle it?
I think 2010 was hard for everyone. Many insureds simply did not want to rock the boat, and chose the path of least resistance. The only way to break through that mentality is to be so different and unique that they are compelled to see what you're all about.
 

Garrett Droege was featured in the June 2011 issue of AA&B. He is a commercial risk advisor/producer for JJ Wade Agency.