"The way I was raised, if you want to succeed, you have to work hard every day," says independent agent Courtney Squier. "Millennials were raised to change the world and be independent."
Courtney Squier
Agent and Secretary
Hardin, Illinois
Age: 27
Currently streaming: 1883
In your earbuds: Morgan Wallen
Preferred social media: TikTok
How did you get started at the family agency?
I started working in the office just filing and doing little things. Three months later, I took the course and exams. Three months after that I became a licensed agent. I liked the atmosphere and the business aspect. They transferred me up to our Pleasant Hill office and I became an agent and the secretary. I ended up loving it and I haven't regretted it.
What do you enjoy about your role?
The hustle and bustle of the industry. My dad always told me, “If you snooze you'll lose in the insurance world." It's a fast-paced environment and I learn something new every single day. It's not the same, same, over and over again. Also, I work with my entire family, so it's always interesting. There's never a dull moment in the office.
What are your career plans?
I've been in this position for three years. I'm hoping to be more involved in crop insurance and help the business in more than being a secretary. Good things are coming my way. I'm excited about learning more about the agency and the industry. I'd just like to be a successful agent, give it my all and make sure all my clients are happy. Getting my life insurance license is another goal. My brother is doing pretty well in life insurance, so I'd like to beat him.
Industry challenges?
Keeping up with technology is an ongoing battle. I've learned so much about technology these last three years—and it's growing every day. Technology use varies with the age of our customers. Some like neat online tools but some of the old-fashioned customers want us to mail or fax them an ID card. Also, the companies that we work with are always upgrading their systems, too, so you've got to stay on your game with the new things coming your way.
Best thing about being an agent?
We have a variety of products we can give to our clients. Like my dad says, “We're like the Amazon of the insurance industry." We offer so many different products, a variety of coverages and can explain them in full detail.
How can insurance attract more young people?
I think work-life balance should be a part of everyone's role. I like the quote from Dolly Parton, “Never get so busy making a living that you forget to make a life." If you have a good balance, you'll live a more peaceful and happier life. Personally, I find myself more productive after a day off or after the weekend with my family and friends. At our agency, if you have places to go, we're not going to hold it over you. We help everyone out and make sure life comes first.
Millennial stereotypes?
Some people say that millennials are lazy but every millennial I know has an eight-to-five, five-days-a-week job, as well as a side job. We all have extra activities and I don't feel like we are a lazy generation. The way I was raised, if you want to succeed, you have to work hard every day. Millennials were raised to change the world and be independent. We're also the most technology savvy and tend to be more passionate about our work.
Will Jones is IA editor-in-chief.
