Back in the late 1970s, after I completed commercial art and marketing communications coursework at a local college, a friend of mine told me about a job that had just opened at a life insurance company. Of course, my response was that I wanted to get into a more reputable industry because, in my mind, insurance companies and agents ranked in the same category as used car sales. The need for a steady income won over and I reluctantly took the job—and, in retrospect, my impression was way off about the insurance industry and the professionals involved in it, but I digress.
The company I joined had less than 100 employees and I was immediately impressed with everyone’s willingness to share their knowledge of the business and assist me in any way necessary. The regional marketing directors quickly accepted a woman into their quarterly marketing/planning meetings (being the first woman to attend one of these events, only one attendee asked me to get him a cup of coffee—and that situation was handled quickly by a male coworker who handled the request).
Six months into this new career, the opportunity to attend the company’s convention for top producers (some of whom I still am in contact with today) was provided. That’s when my impression of insurance sales professionals began to change—not just because they paid my salary, but because the majority of them were so dedicated to their profession and the people they served.
As the years passed, I had the privilege to meet so many producers whose love of the business was contagious. They became real life superheros to me—because I was able to witness how they truly made the world a better place!
You’re probably thinking that’s a bit of an exaggeration, but think about it. Superheros have a great amount of energy, exceptional skills, a strong moral code and sense of responsibility. Plus most work independently and are skilled detectives. Granted, most producers don’t wear costumes (except in the 1970s when leisure suits were in style), most are not independently wealthy, and most don’t keep their identity a secret.
What these superhero agents do that is most important is “protect” those in need—they truly are guardians of the family structure, business continuation, retirement security and estate preservation.
How could anyone not be proud to be in the insurance industry?
Do you have a superhero who has inspired you to be in the insurance industry? If so, call him or her today and say thanks. If you have a superhero who deserves to be recognized, please drop me a note (schace@brokerworldmag.com). Broker World always wants to recognize those who have contributed to our industry by assisting clients and other agents.
One last note: Hello to one of my superheros, a woman who has been in the insurance industry in Charlotte, NC, for nearly 45 years, Vivian Bowman. [SAC]
