In the mid ’70s in our small town, rate clerks with a college degree were hired for $300 a month to start. That was the ‘girls’ of course. When we found out ‘the boys’ were being sent to IIA night classes, we raised a little hell about it. But just a little because it was Iowa in the 70’s. We DID get to take a company car to commute in, but completed our IIA and some of my co-workers CPCU. Yes, make your pitch for the training, invest your own time somewhat. 45 years later, those I started with are retiring after rewarding careers.
Thanks for that comment. You’re right, it’s more than a job or a gig. There is such career potential if those who are coming in alongside and after us want it.
Some good advice Patrick. I am certainly seeing the, “grey wave” beginning to happen with us baby boomers actually retiring. This means opportunity for those that are prepared and curious to learn more about this ever changing business. I find designations good career risk management as it says something about you as well as the fact we know in today’s HR environment the HR department will release very little information about an employee. There are also local or regional organization like IEA or local trade associations with good education programs and networking. Also good advice to keep reading IJ and the daily postings to keep abreast.
I can’t agree more, Patty. Anyone that wants to succeed in our industry has to take charge and go after the learning. I’m a designation junkie, I admit it, but it’s how I’ve learned about our industry and how I’ve made connections with people.
In the mid ’70s in our small town, rate clerks with a college degree were hired for $300 a month to start. That was the ‘girls’ of course. When we found out ‘the boys’ were being sent to IIA night classes, we raised a little hell about it. But just a little because it was Iowa in the 70’s. We DID get to take a company car to commute in, but completed our IIA and some of my co-workers CPCU. Yes, make your pitch for the training, invest your own time somewhat. 45 years later, those I started with are retiring after rewarding careers.
Thanks for that comment. You’re right, it’s more than a job or a gig. There is such career potential if those who are coming in alongside and after us want it.
Some good advice Patrick. I am certainly seeing the, “grey wave” beginning to happen with us baby boomers actually retiring. This means opportunity for those that are prepared and curious to learn more about this ever changing business. I find designations good career risk management as it says something about you as well as the fact we know in today’s HR environment the HR department will release very little information about an employee. There are also local or regional organization like IEA or local trade associations with good education programs and networking. Also good advice to keep reading IJ and the daily postings to keep abreast.
I can’t agree more, Patty. Anyone that wants to succeed in our industry has to take charge and go after the learning. I’m a designation junkie, I admit it, but it’s how I’ve learned about our industry and how I’ve made connections with people.