ABOUT JASON
But touching on my points about challenges – an independent agent needs to be cutting-edge and ahead of the curve in order to stay relevant. For a consumer to choose an independent agent over the other distribution channels, the independent agent must quickly adapt to changes and take advantage of the technologies that are out there.
JASON EARNED a bachelor’s degree in public policy from The Pennsylvania State University. He attended law school at Widener University and became licensed to practice in Pennsylvania in 2005. During his 12-year tenure at IA&B, Jason has argued successfully before the Insurance Department and the Commonwealth Court, where he represented the interests of independent agents.
Q. What is the role of IA&B in independent agents’ success? How can the organization best support its members? A. IA&B is a partner in everything I just mentioned. I know it is daunting for agents to constantly have to be adapting. But if they fully utilize the resources IA&B has to offer, it makes the job that much easier.
A native of Central Pennsylvania, Jason resides in Hershey, Pa., with his wife, Lisa, and their son, Brayden.
For example, I spoke with an agent the other day who said IA&B education is expensive, and he can get cheap or free credits elsewhere. But I’m a firm believer that you get what you pay for. An agency that invests in quality and timely education is going to be much more relevant to their customers. IA&B provides that support.
Q. What are the greatest challenges facing the independent agents? What about opportunities? A. It has become an extremely competitive market – more so than ever. Agents can no longer rely on referral business coming through the door. Business has to be earned, and value has to be shown to keep that business. It really is a dog-eat-dog insurance world. To that point, there is great opportunity for independent agents to distinguish themselves. The agents that can pull away from the pack have the potential to be very successful. Agencies need to embrace technology, think outside the box, and work extremely hard for business. But if they do that – there are phenomenal opportunities for them. Q. Doomsdayers predict the demise of the independent agency channel. What’s your take: What must independent agents do to survive, and ideally to thrive? A. The independent agent is, and will be, a key player in the insurance marketplace. They are going nowhere. There is a segment, and demographic, in society that will always seek insurance counsel to protect their assets. And in the commercial arena, the independent agent is indispensable.
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And that’s just one example. IA&B is a wealth of knowledge and tools, and we will continue to develop new resources. Agents need to see us not as an added cost, but an added staff member. We know independent agents better than anyone else, and we want to help independent agents succeed. Q. What is your vision for IA&B? A. To be that indispensable partner for our members as they continue to grow and improve. Just like agents need to constantly adapt, it is critical for IA&B for adapt. We must constantly be learning about our members and their needs – and we must deliver on those needs. The days of passive associations – meaning let the members come to you for resources – is over. IA&B needs to become a consultant to our members, and we must bring the product to them. IA&B has an amazing staff, and we are in position to do great things. We will soon be rebranding ourselves so that we are better recognizable to members (and non-members). Q. What’s your favorite part of your job? A. Meeting and talking with members. Every agency has its own unique story, and to me every one is fascinating. And independent agents are part of the community they are in, and I’ve gotten to see those communities as well.
JANUARY 2018