Agency Operations

Marrissa Winkelman entered the world of insurance in 2012 when she started as the receptionist at Webb Insurance. Understanding quickly that the position wasn’t the right fit for her, she moved to the back office, where she focused on insurance and working her way up.

On this episode of Agency Nation Radio, Jennifer Becker, Big “I” executive director of research and education, is joined by Claudia St. John, founder and CEO of The Workplace Advisors.  During the episode, they explore how small independent insurance agencies can compete with large corporations for talent; whether artificial intelligence (AI) is helping agencies address staffing shortages or simply adding another layer of complexity; and what agency owners…

The most successful companies understand that attracting top talent isn’t just about offering the highest salary; it’s about leveraging creative strategies and building an authentic workplace culture.

To address the talent shortage, here are five successful, replicable strategies already in motion to recruit the next wave of insurance talent in 2026 and beyond.

AI may reduce manual work, but it does not reduce the need for skilled people. In fact, it increases it.

Every agency has its own “unwritten rules”: those lessons, bits of wisdom or do’s and don’ts that may not show up in trainings or be written down anywhere but make all the difference in running a successful business

Independent Agent magazine speaks with an agent from each revenue category about their experiences with the Best Practices Study and how their business operates.

Just because the economy is unpredictable doesn’t mean it’s time to pull up the drawbridge and hide. Making smart moves to drive growth, both organic and inorganic, can keep a business thriving.

When it comes to planning for your agency’s internal perpetuation, there are numerous factors to consider, each requiring careful consideration and strategic discussion.