It’s time to get out the crystal ball to think about what trends might help or hurt the agency in the coming year. By being proactive and strategic, agencies could stay ahead of the competition. And if today’s trends can …
Congratulations! You are an excellent salesperson and your business is growing. You first hired a customer service representative (CSR) to support you as you added new business. You might have brought on a part-time bookkeeper. Sales continued to grow. Next, …
Last month’s “Minding Your Business” column explored a few reasons an agency might perpetuate the firm, the four common techniques to transfer ownership, pros and cons, and some options for internal perpetuation. This month’s column will discuss the remaining most …
Long before owners want to retire, perpetuation planning should begin. The four major techniques to transfer ownership of a business are: Internal sale to key employees, including family members. Sale of the business to an outside firm. Merging with another …
When an agency is started, most new owners will be happy to sell their products or services to anyone that is willing to buy. After all, one needs to have paying clients to stay in business! However, this approach is …
How is the best way to measure the business’ success? Often business owners have a good grasp of the financial indicators and sales of their business. Knowing sales is important — owners might know off the top of their head …
How is the best way to measure the business’ success? Often business owners have a good grasp of the financial indicators and sales of their business. Knowing sales is important – owners might know off the top of their head …
The traditional business plan includes short-term and long-term goals and projections. But, how do you plan when you can’t guess what will happen? Some things are shifting faster than you can keep up with or are changing based on politics. …
Today agents must assume an active role in establishing solid relationships with their insurance companies. The key to any good relationship is communication. Agencies must devise a well-organized plan to communicate with their carriers. This article shows owners the way. …
Today’s generation is all about social networking. Social networking has become the most popular way to network and promote business. And in the current “tech savvy” environment it’s becoming increasingly apparent social media is here to stay, so it’s important …
