The Florida Association of Insurance Agents' Big I days will always draw the golfers. And carriers will forever host advisory councils and roundtable retreats at luxury hotspots such as South Seas Plantation and Ocean Reef. While that may be fine for well-established agents and scratch players, how does a new agent get in front of the big carriers? Or, for that matter, how does a new carrier best make a pitch to an independent agent? Traditionally, the choices have been limited to hosting or attending an impersonal large-room seminar or cold calling to arrange for one-on-one face time in the office.

Some go-getters at the Independent Insurance Agents of Dade County Young Agents Council are promoting a new concept. Welcome to the world of Speed Meeting, a novel approach to efficient networking in today's multi-tasking, hurry-up business world.

Speed Meeting is a take-off on the speed dating craze, where a group of singles gathers at a cafe or similar venue. Armed with a nametag, a scorecard, and their sparkling personalities, couples are paired up to begin their first date. They are allowed to discuss anything, although they usually avoid direct information on their careers or where they live. Following several minutes of conversation, a bell is rung, and the men move on to meet their next date. Think of it as a flirt's version of musical chairs.