"One of the pros of having different generations in the workplace is experience," says Raymond Lowder, independent agent. "What the older generations have gone through is nothing you can replace."
Raymond Lowder
Personal Lines Agent
Vista, California
Age: 29
Currently streaming: Falcon and the Winter Soldier
In your earbuds: Kids See Ghosts
Preferred social media: Facebook and Instagram
Why insurance?
During my last semester in college, I was looking at internships. GEICO was an opportunity I could have jumped on, but a buddy of mine recommended that if I was looking to get into insurance I should reach out to an independent agency he used to work at. He got me in touch with Morgan Hege and Seth Arruda at what is now Alta Vista Insurance Agency. After I talked with them, I did more research and found there was a lot of opportunity being an independent agent.
Industry role models?
Morgan and Seth. Without them, I wouldn't be where I am today. The opportunity that they have given me has been really great. When I started, I was a white belt. I haven't done sales before, I haven't done insurance, I haven't really done anything. They taught me a whole lot and showed me the ropes.
Multiple generations in the workplace?
One of the pros of having different generations in the workplace is experience. What the older generations have gone through is nothing you can replace. You do need to be able to work together and collaborate as a group to find the best ideas. You can bump heads sometimes, but as soon as you're able to get on the same page and move forward, it's the best thing for your agency.
Biggest industry challenge?
One of the challenges in the industry is that not a whole lot of people look at insurance right away as a career. It's just not the most appealing career people want to have. But as more people jump in, I know they'll find it to be a great, rewarding option.
What do you love about insurance?
No matter where someone is in their business or in their life, I'm able to help them. Helping a lot of different people is really fulfilling and something I enjoy doing.
AnneMarie McPherson is IA news editor.
