The Independent Agent

How Should Internal Employee Moves be Managed?

Beverage - The Schmitts!

Part 1: Is there proper protocol when employees want to move within the agency?

Part 2: Does an agency benefit from participating in carrier advisory boards?

In this episode, Justin and Jordan discuss the pros and cons of employees changing positions within an agency. They also share some tips on how to add value to agency-carrier advisory boards.

How Do Managers Reenergize a Team That Has Started to Check Out?

Beverage – The Expat

Part 1: What can managers do when the excitement of working from home wears off?

Part 2: How should agencies manage producer comp plans?

In this episode, Justin and Jordan discuss options agencies can use to overcome the challenges of an extended remote work situation. They also dig into producer compensation and share thoughts on the different factors that impact compensation structure.

How Can An Agency Identify Ineffective Parts of the Sales Process?

Beverage – Deep Cleanse

Part 1: How do you help a struggling producer get on the right track?

Part 2: Do leads lists work?

In this episode, Justin and Jordan talk about critical parts of the sales process and the information needed to pinpoint where adjustments are needed. They also discuss what works and what doesn’t work when it comes to leads lists.

What Should An Agency Do When They Have More Carriers Than They Know What To Do With?

Beverage – Mint Julep

Part 1: How do we create a more productive employee review process?

Part 2: How does an agency decide who makes the cut when they are overwhelmed by too many carrier?

In this episode, Justin and Jordan discuss the importance of regular employee performance conversations. They also dig into the various factors that should be considered and steps to take when creating a carrier consolidation plan.

How Do You Break Up With A Client?

Beverage: Cherry Blossom

Part 1: How do you know when enough is enough with a difficult client?

Part 2: What is the best way to introduce outsourcing to agency employees?

In this episode, Justin and Jordan share thoughts on criteria to evaluate when deciding if it’s time to end a client relationship. They also discuss the different talking points to use with agency staff when bringing outsourcing into the operations.

Should Growth Opportunities in the Insurance Industry be Contingent on a College Degree?

Beverage – Sidecar

Part 1: Can I have a successful career in insurance without a college degree?

Part 2: How should agencies approach the policy review process?

In this episode, Justin and Jordan share their thoughts on what value a college degree has when building a career in the insurance industry. They also discuss the importance of combining proactive conversations with a formalized annual review process.

The Pros & Cons of Using a CRM

Beverage – Gin Fizz

Part 1: What should agencies look for in a CRM system?

Part 2: What options does an employee have when their workload suddenly doubles?

In this episode, Justin and Jordan share their thoughts and experience on the challenges, features, and options available when using CRM system. They also provide a few ideas on how an employee can address concerns when they are unexpectedly given additional responsibilities.

How do I Prepare for Opening My Own Agency?

Beverage – New York Sour

Part 1: What advice would you give for making the leap from agency employee to agency owner?

Part 2: What benefits do agencies need to offer to attract new talent?

In this episode, Justin and Jordan share their recommendations on the tools and resources to utilize when starting a new agency. They also discuss the legitimacy of unlimited benefits being a make or break to potential new hires.

What Do You Do When a Producer Goes M.I.A.?

Beverage – High Noon Grapefruit Vodka & Soda

Part 1: How can an Account Manager address the fallout created by a producer who is never available?

Part 2: Should agencies try to accommodate special scheduling requests?

In this episode, Justin and Jordan discuss how to address problems created by an absentee agent. They also share some thoughts on different factors agencies need to consider when a full-time employee suddenly wants to go part-time.

The Struggle is Real When Attempting to Understand Reports From the AMS

Beverage – BuzzBallz Horchata

Part 1: How do agency leaders translate report data into effective action?

Part 2: Should all employees have access to the same privileges?

Show Notes:

In this episode, Justin and Jordan discuss the challenges agency leaders face when trying to decipher confusing reports from the agency management system. They also share their thoughts around flexible scheduling and creating a consistent standard throughout the company.