Check your ego and bring in people who aren’t just like you, but can help you soar. Most successful business owners find a balance between working In and on their business, as both are crucial for the overall health and sustainability of a business. —Susan L. Combs, CEO, Combs & Company
The evidence is clear that diversity fosters a variety of company benefits, including enhanced business success and greater potential earnings. —Jason Keck, CEO and co-founder, Broker Buddha
The culture of a company is the heart and soul of the organization; it is the backbone, the values, the behaviors, it is how employees engage and interact both inside the company and out. —Michael Malhame, CEO and owner, MyHealthily
In thinking about your business, it’s clear that making educated decisions about your money is crucial. And doing so when the financial markets or economy are volatile is even more critical. —Brian Severin, senior executive vice president and chief marketing officer, Mutual of America Financial Group
Exposures often lead business owners to cut the wrong expenses and avoid the right investment. Many agencies start by slashing their marketing and training budget. But disciplined competitors know enhanced marketing presence and training creates more separation between them and their competition by the day.
—Kevin Trokey, founder, Q4intelligence
We recently formed an ‘elite advisor group’ that meets regularly to share what works and doesn’t, and leadership is involved to help facilitate next steps and takeaways. Our compliance and actuarial leaders provide added support and problem solving on a daily basis. —Jenni Bickerstaff, senior partner, SVP of employee benefits, AHT Insurance
It’s no longer just about my clients. It’s about having a positive impact on all of their employees. —Brian Uhlig, senior partner, employee benefits, Alera Group
It’s about keeping your nose down but your ears open. You can’t chase every single shiny object, but if you hear about something that is truly different, it’s worth looking into it. If you hear from someone who has had success with a partner or carrier and what they are doing aligns with your organization, then it’s worth exploring. —Luke Davis, marketing sales manager, Texas Benefit Alliance
I’m encouraged more often than not, but I’m preparing my team to be ready for a number of scenarios. I can’t sit and just wait for something to happen; it’s my role to ensure that we have a place in the market, no matter what happens, while also ensuring we’re prepared for today. —Cameron Cummings, managing partner, Transparent By Design
If we don’t have good people and work to help others, we’re never going to truly change our industry. I love listening to people’s stories, looking them in the eye and asking them, “How can I help?” That goes a long way. —Christina King, founder and president, C&A Benefits Group
Building a better brokerage
Design by Chris Nicholls
Illustration: Jorm Sangsorn/Adobe Stock
Making enrollment (and beyond) more impactful
Ensuring employee wellness
Using data & tech to your advantage
Creating better communication strategies
Innovative plan design
Personal & professional development
Building a better brokerage
Prospecting & making new connections
Creating a more diverse industry
Challenging the status quo
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