I probably don't have to tell anyone reading this that the insurance industry is amid a talent crisis - heck your organization is either not fully staffed or you are currently fighting to “keep good people happy". That being said, studies show that there will be close to 400,000 job openings in the insurance industry over the coming years due to mass retirements (I am proudly one of them soon!!)
Here at Big I NY, we not only recognize and respect that statistic, but we are trying to do our part to help! Presently, we have placed on lot of focus on two areas:
1.) Supporting and guiding future leaders in your agency
Our
Leadership Academy continues to sell out every cohort we hold. Why? Because we have a proven track record of equipping participants with the essential tools and skills necessary for effective leadership. They leave the program inspired, ready to drive the agency toward continued success.
Here a a few of the recent comments we have received from agency principals about the program:
“Once again, let me tell you how much of an impact the Leadership program had on xxxxxxxx! She has made a 180-degree turn in her management efforts. Everyone has noticed, and it is changing morale. I'm confident results will follow. Many thanks to you and your team."
“xxxxxx gave me some really great feedback from the academy he just took. When is the next one taking place? I have another team lead I would like to send."
2.) Spreading the word about careers in the insurance industry
Simultaneously, we have started putting on presentations to local community colleges. We gather professionals from agencies and carriers and talk to students about the different careers in the insurance industry. Many students (and even adults in the room) don't know much about insurance and what they do know isn't very appealing in their eyes. We show them all the different aspects of the industry and explain it's not all sales. The students are engaged and genuinely interested to hear more. Precisely the outcome we hoped for and envisioned.
We have had tremendous feedback from all who have worked with us. Comments like “Jim, I had to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude for all you have done, as well as for the extraordinary panelists you brought. The event was truly an eye-opening experience for our students. Their engagement and curiosity made it clear that the session resonated deeply, leaving a lasting impact. Your efforts were instrumental in making the event a success. The panelists captivated the students and, without a doubt, broadened their understanding of the opportunities within the insurance industry."
So, how can you get involved in either of these very worthwhile endeavors? Know some one at a local college? Have a potential leader in your midst? I'd love to connect.
Jim Lombardo
315.432.4226