Daniel J. Kaufman, broker at Burns & Wilcox Brokerage of Chicago
Years at company: 6 years
College: University of Michigan, BA '07, Loyola University Chicago, JD '10
How can employers recruit young talent?
Recruiting young talent is paramount to the future of our industry and takes a strong commitment on the part of the employers. Today's youth needs to be engaged and, thus, the job opportunities need to be engaging. The best place to find young talent is on university campuses, and yet the insurance industry seems to be mostly absent from them. We cannot sit back and hope that the best and brightest find us—we, as an industry, need to get out there and boast of the great opportunities available in insurance.
How can employers keep young talent?
An employer's commitment to training and mentoring is vital for the success of young talent. Consequently, companies need to be patient and honest with expectations as the young employees develop into the business. Another key factor is the culture of the offices. Is collaboration amongst employees encouraged? Are there other young, energetic employees in the office? Are the older workers accepting of this younger workforce? If not, the younger employees will look elsewhere to advance their careers.
Who do you look to as a mentor in this industry?
I look to my father, Alan J. Kaufman, and my grandfather, Herbert W. Kaufman, as mentors in this industry. While my grandfather was an astute businessman, it was his charisma and kindness that people reflect on the most. At the end of the day, our business is built upon relationships and reputation and no one understood that better than he did. My father, meanwhile, is a visionary in his own right and backs it up with an entrepreneurial spirit and passion for growth. He has guided Burns & Wilcox to new heights and recognizes that if we aren't always moving forward, we're moving backwards. While I try to emulate both of these men, I understand from them that I need to be my own person and forge my own path.
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