Years at company: 2.5 years
College and graduating year: Iowa State University, BS '06, MBA '11.
Organizations: National CPCU Society, CPCU Society New Designee Committee, Columbus CPCU Society Director of Good Works, Nationwide's Gen Y Associate Resource Group Communications Chair.
What was the biggest challenge you faced as a young agent?
It was difficult to learn that this is a relationship-based business. It's not about being the smartest person in the room, but rather about knowing how to create connections and make the most out of them. Once I figured that out, I started asking myself, “What can I do for this person or company?” and my career just took off.
What skills do young agents need next year?
A strong technical knowledge will become more important as personal lines become more standardized and largely written without an agent. Commercial lines is where the agents will likely remain in demand, and for that you need to have a lot of technical education to serve your more sophisticated customers. CPCU and CLU will become even more important. Networking skills are also absolutely vital.
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