MENTORSHIP IN THE INSURANCE INDUSTRY: BRUCE’S TOP SIX TIPS FOR NEW BROKERS
By: Bruce Rabik, COO, Acera Insurance
As an insurance professional with over forty years experience in the Canadian insurance business, I recognize the importance of mentoring future leaders within the industry. In this article, I will share my top five tips for anyone just starting out in the insurance field.
The industry is always evolving and changing. As an insurance professional you need to be prepared for this, and be ready to act accordingly. Examples of changes that can affect the insurance industry are mergers and consolidations, Insurtech or regulatory changes, inflation, and even fluctuations in financial markets Remember to keep ahead of these trends by going to conferences, speaking events, reading the trade publications, and relying on your network for information too

Tip 2: Deepen Your Relationships with Clients and Colleagues
Strong relationships with both colleagues and clients is key to success in the insurance field. Developing trust is very important when providing a product to a client, as the insurance field is intricately connected to a person’s life and livelihood. Showing a genuine interest in your client and being personable is a great asset to your practice as an insurance professional. As I always like to say: “People First, Profits Second”.

Tip 3: Keep Learning!
Being a lifelong learner is another excellent skill for anyone entering the insurance field There are a variety of courses provided by accreditation bodies to help you grow and evolve in your practice in the industry Websites such as CE Corner can assist you with this, as they feature courses on topics such as ethics, professional knowledge, and practice management. Taking part in conferences and symposiums is also another great way to boost your knowledge of and within the insurance field.