What are your future goals in this industry? I would love to see the insurance industry embrace technology. There are tools available to agents and carriers that could allow us to do amazing things and yet there is constant foot-dragging. When the Red Sea parts and the technological floodgates open those with an open mind and an eye on the future will be hard to contend with.

How do you balance work and personal life? I work with my wife, father-in-law and brother-in-law. I basically consider the office a second home. So I wouldn’t say I’m the best one to ask about balance. But working so closely with my family has been a blessing and something I’m thankful for every day. Working hand-in-hand to grow a business with people you care about is extremely rewarding.

Gen Y’s often change jobs—7 times in their 20s, according to research. How can employers retain young talent? Engage young employees. Ask their opinion on matters that affect the organization. I’m not saying you make a 25-year-old a decision maker, just that you let them be heard. … The put-your-head-down-and-work-days are over. Young employees want to be involved in the operations of an organization.

Ryan Hanley was featured in the Feb. 2011 issue of AA&B. He is an account executive at The Murray Group (formerly named Guilderland Agency).