June 2019 e-Insight - Non-Member by Big I Illinois

JUNE 2019

INSIGHT Are you an

INTROVERT? QUIET INFLUENCE

An Introvertâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Guide to Making a Difference

How Introverts Can Learn to

LOVE NETWORKING

You’re in the business of protecting others. So, who’s watching out for you? We are. At Arlington/Roe, we put the needs of our customers first. What does that look like? Well, it looks like experience you can trust, integrity you can count on, promises we stand behind and an independent and family-owned industry partner who understands your specific needs. Located in nine states and licensed in all 50, we’ve got your back. Get to know the people of Arlington/Roe. We’ve been doing the right thing since 1964.

Let us help you find the right solutions. Managing General Agents | Wholesale Insurance Brokers

800.878.9891 | ArlingtonRoe.com

Editor & Graphic Design - Rachel Romines

Advertising - Tami Hubbell

CONTENTS June 2019

8 11 16 20 24 30

IIA of IL Goes to Washington D.C. By Evan Manning

Recreational Marijuana and Impaired Driving By James Lynch and Lucian McMahon

How to Get Testimonials That Boost Your Credibility By John Graham

How Many Hours Per Week = Sales Success By John Chapin

Quiet Influence: The Introvert’s Guide to Making a Difference By Jennifer K. Kahnweiler, Ph.D., CSP

How Introverts Can Learn to Love Networking By Holly Raider

30 In This Issue

7 23 33 The Independent Insurance Agents of Illinois (IIA of IL) has been providing members with a sustainable competitive advantage since 1899.

Trusted Choice

e-Insight Young Agents

34 35 38 39 40 42

Associate News IIA of IL News People in the News Staff Profile Industry News Classifieds

info@iiaofil.org | www.iiaofil.org | (800) 628-6436 or (217) 793-6660 | Fax: (217) 793-6744

2009 • 2010 • 2011 • 2012 2013 • 2014 • 2015 • 2016 • 2017

Insight is the official publication of the Independent Insurance Agents of Illinois (IIA of IL). The magazine is published monthly for the members of the IIA of IL, with the office located at 4360 Wabash Avenue, Springfield, Illinois 62711-7009; Consumer Website: www.ChooseIndependent.com. The IIA of IL welcomes letters discussing concerns of the insurance industry, articles, editorials, other matters of interest to the membership. The editor reserves the right to edit and select submissions for publication. Address submissions for review to Rachel Romines at rromines@iiaofil.org. For advertising information, contact Tami Hubbell at thubbell@iiaofil.org.

ADVERTISERS

Board of Directors Executive Committee

Chairman of the Board | Ryan Hite (309) 688-7316 | ryan.hite@eaglerockins.com President | Patrick Muldowney (312) 595-7192 | patrick.muldowney@alliant.com

ACUITY

APPLIED UNDERWRITERS

ARLINGTON/ROE

President-Elect | Bill Wirth (618) 939-6368 | billw@wirthagency.com

BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY GUARD INS. GROUP

Vice President | George Daly (708) 845-3311 | george.daly@thehortongroup.com

FCCI INSURANCE GROUP

Secretary/Treasurer | Bennie Jones (312) 960-6206 | bjones@rmsoa.com

GRINNELL MUTUAL

IIABA National Director Gregory A. Sandrock, CIC, AFIS (815) 438-3923 | gregsandrock@2cornerstone.com

IMT INSURANCE

IPMG

Regional Directors

KEYSTONE INSURANCE GROUP, INC.

Region 1 | Lisa Lukens (618) 942-2556 | salibainsurance@gmail.com

LEGAL SERVICES HOTLINE

Region 2 | Joseph Heneghan (618) 639-2244 | joe.heneghan@hwcrins.com

OPENLY

Region 3 | Jay Peterson, AFIS, LUTCF (217) 935-6605 | jay@peterson.insurance

RLI PERSONAL UMBRELLA

Region 4 | Michael Gonet (815) 339-2411 | mike_gonet@hotmail.com

WA SCHICKEDANZ/INTERSTATE RISK PLACEMENT

Region 5 | Patrick Taphorn, CIC, CSRM (309) 347-2177 | ptaphorn@unland.com

WAHVE

Region 6 | Teresa Fleming (815) 849-5219 | tess@leffelmanassoc.com

WEST BEND MUTUAL

IIA of Illinois Staff CRM Manager, CONVO Coordinator Shannon Churchill - (217) 321-3004 - schurchill@iiaofil.org

Government Relations Manager Evan Manning - (217) 321-3002 - emanning@iiaofil.org

Director of Education and Agency Resources Brett Gerger - (217) 321-3006 - bgerger@iiaofil.org

Vice President, Agents Insurance Services Brian McSherry, CIC - (217) 321-3018 - bmcsherry@iiaofil.org

Accounting & Admin Services, Tradeshow Admin Tami Hubbell - (217) 321-3016 - thubbell@iiaofil.org

Office Administrator Kristi Osmond - (217) 321-3007 - kosmond@iiaofil.org

Director of Human Resources/Board Admin Jennifer Jacobs - (217) 321-3013 - jjacobs@iiaofil.org

Director of Communications Rachel Romines - (217) 321-3024 - rromines@iiaofil.org

Sr. Vice President/Chief Financial Officer Mark Kuchar - (217) 321-3015 - mkuchar@iiaofil.org

Director of Membership Services Tom Ross, CRIS, CPIA - (217) 321-3003 - tross@iiaofil.org

Chief Executive Officer Phil Lackman - (217) 321-3005 - plackman@iiaofil.org

Products & Services Administrator Janet White, CISR - (217) 321-3010 - jwhite.indep12@insuremail.net

Central/Southern Marketing Representative Lori Mahorney - (217) 415-7550 - lmahorney@iiaofil.org

Sr. Products & Services Administrator Carol Wilson, CPIA - (217) 321-3011 - cwilson.indep12@insuremail.net

Trusted Choice | Keith Verisario (847) 699-4040 | kmv@allsecurity.com Young Agents | Allyson Padilla (618) 393-2195 | allyson@blanksinsurance.com

Find us on Social Media

TRUST US TO CATER TO THEIR BUSINESS Our restaurant package offers a menu of options that cover the risks of running a successful dining establishment, from food spoilage to cooking equipment protection, and more. That way, restaurant owners can focus on their bread and butter — customers. Trust in Tomorrow.® Contact us today. AUTO | HOME | FARM | BUSINESS

grinnellmutual.com “Trust in Tomorrow.” and “Grinnell Mutual” are registered trademarks of Grinnell Mutual Reinsurance Company. © Grinnell Mutual Reinsurance Company, 2019.

Your customer has years of memories in this house.

The most valuable things the family will ever own. As an Official Supplier of the Silver Lining®, you can help them protect it with a Home and Highway® policy from West Bend. Your customers will benefit from the convenience of one policy, one bill, one deductible, and one agency. With West Bend’s identity protection program, they can have access to a variety of identity protection services. And with the claim free award, they’ll even get a portion of their annual premium back if they don’t have a claim. To find out more, talk to your West Bend underwriter.

Celebrating 125 years of valued relationships with our agent partners.

Free to do what's right for you.SM

Agency Nation and TrustedChoice.com

By Marc Burdell

As we reflect on a successful Elevate Conference, we are gratified that so many old and new friends chose to take time out of their busy schedule to spend a few days with us in New Orleans. It was an information-filled event for all. From general sessions featuring nationally known speakers to the breakout sessions led by agents providing creative and unique marketing insights, good tips and tricks were flowing. In addition, the trade show was filled with information sharing, and people learning about new solutions to the insurance puzzle. Trusted Choice was the lead sponsor of Elevate, which makes sense because both Agency Nation and Trusted Choice focus on helping insurance agents remain competitive as the insurance environment evolves. As natural as that relationship is, how the organizations work together can still be confusing. Different Approaches, Same Goals Both Trusted Choice and Agency Nation help independent insurance agencies attract and write new business with innovative marketing. The ways they do this however are different. The short hand we use to describe the difference is Do-ItYourself vs. Done-For-You marketing. As evidenced by Elevate, Agency Nation helps agencies learn how to effectively market themselves and their producers. Whether that is via social media, or using video to spice up marketing and sales proposals, the experts at Agency Nation help an agency’s staff get the job done right.

june 2019

They do this by informing agents via written and video blog posts, and short focused educational ‘sprints’ that impart timely marketing techniques. Any agency that is serious about marketing should have one or more employees who participate both in the educational offerings and in the Agency Nation community. The value of conversation between peers across the country is unparalleled. On the other hand, participation in TrustedChoice.com allows your agency to leverage the efforts of trained marketing professionals while you focus on running the agency. Although every member of the Big I has a basic listing on the Trusted Choice website, paid listings provide your agency with the ability to differentiate your agency from others in your area. With an Advantage subscription, your listing is prominently featured on the site, but only when you want to market to that specific prospect. You also market to a larger area, and can have your customers provide ratings and reviews for your agency and personnel. With all of these benefits, shouldn’t you consider an Advantage subscription today? Please call us at 855-3720075 to discuss your options. Marc Burdell is Vice President, State Partnerships for TrustedChoice.com/Agency Nation. He can be reached at marc.burdell@trustedchoice.com. ** The third and final installment of The Trusted Choice Brand Series will appear in the July issue of Insight.

insight

f IL o A I I mber Me nefit Be

Legal Services Hotline Get answers to your legal questions - For FREE

WHAT IS THE IIA OF IL LEGAL SERVICES HOTLINE? The IIA of IL routinely receives member inquiries seeking advice that requires the assistance of legal counsel. In many instances, the questions can be quickly answered by experienced attorney. We believe that extending legal services on a limited basis and at no cost to our member agencies is a valuable addition to the extensive services we currently offer. Therefore, the IIA of IL has retained the services of HeplerBroom, LLC to assist our members with legal questions.

WHO CAN USE THIS? The Legal Services Hotline is available to all current IIA of IL member agencies at no charge at the rate of 30 minutes per year. (Based on Association membership which runs Oct. 1 - Sept. 30) The Legal Services Hotline is restricted exclusively to insurance or agency operations questions. The service is not available for personal legal questions. Some of the topics on which members could make use of this service are:

Insurance Law and Regulations; Employment Practices, Labor and Discrimination Contracts Negligence Errors and Omissions Business Law, Planning and Accounting

Independence can’t happen alone Independence means freedom, but it also means responsibility. It is about staying true to the commitments you’ve made - to your clients, your colleagues, and your community. Keystone connects you to a community of like-minded independent agencies. Our mission remains unchanged: to provide access to the expertise, resources, and relationships that sustain independent insurance agencies over the long haul. Keystone. Independence works better together.

Contact Matthew Fink for more information: 570.473.4346 mfink@keystoneinsgrp.com keystoneinsgrp.com

RLI PERSONAL UMBRELLA POLICY

WHY YOUR CUSTOMERS NEED A STANDALONE PERSONAL UMBRELLA POLICY A Personal Umbrella Policy provides an extra layer of very affordable liability protection for your clients’ personal assets and future earnings.

A SMART SOURCE OF PROTECTION FOR YOUR CUSTOMERS. You’ll find an RLI Personal Umbrella Policy is a good idea. • Stand Alone Umbrella — No requirements on underlying carriers • Excess Uninsured/Underinsured Motorists coverage offered in all states • No age limit on drivers • Admitted in all 50 states and D.C.

BECAUSE UNEXPECTED EVENTS HAPPEN.

• Self-Underwriting Application • Easy application process • Available limits up to $5 million

DON’T LET YOUR CUSTOMERS MAKE THE WRONG ASSUMPTIONS. People have homeowners and auto insurance — however, if your customers aren’t protected by a personal umbrella policy, they could be putting their house or financial assets at risk. An RLI Personal Umbrella Policy is a low-cost policy that substantially increases overall liability coverage beyond the basic protection provided under homeowners and auto insurance policies. RLI, rated A+ by A.M. Best, offers their personal umbrella coverage so your customers can protect their hard-earned assets. Getting a quote is easy and coverage is very affordable. The RLI Personal Umbrella Policy is available through selected agents and program administrators

Scenario: In Louisiana, an insured’s teenage son was driving his younger sister and her friend when he lost control of the vehicle and hit a telephone pole. The friend permanently lost the use of her right arm and suffered severe brain injuries resulting in permanent brain damage. Outcome: The claim was settled for more than the insured’s auto policy would cover. Without the Personal Umbrella Policy, the insured would have had to pay $1 million out of their own pocket.

in all 50 states.

FOR MO R E IN F O RMAT ION: Rated A+ by A.M. Best Rated A+ by Standard & Poor’s Carol Wilson P: 217.321.3011 | E : cwilson.indep12@insuremail.net

RLIP UP.COM PUP-MK508 (6/17)

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Beautifully Simple Insurance, Sold Through Trusted Advisors

35% of insurance is sold through independent agents, so why has this group not experienced the innovation and technology investment needed to simplify the homeowner quoting experience? Introducing Openly.

What is Openly?

How Does Openly Do It?

• InsureTech for Independent Agents

• Data…leveraging hundreds of data elements from third parties

• Up-Market Homeowner Insurance for Independent Agents by Insurance People • Simple, Fast & Accurate! 3 data points & 20 seconds gets you an accurate, bindable rate • Straightforward & intuitive technology without all the insurance jargon

• Advanced Modeling & Machine Learning with next gen modeling techniques for rating and underwriting decisions • Data & modeling allow for lower expenses which means a more competitively priced product!

How Does Openly Enhance the Customer Experience? • A high end, superior product featuring guaranteed replacement cost coverage, one click private flood and umbrella coverages • White glove claims and service operations that leverage state of the art technology to enhance the overall experience • Single click eSign process that simplifies the policy issuance process

Interested in becoming an agent partner with Openly? Visit openlyinsured.com/for-agents or email marketing@openlyinsured.com

Available for sale exclusively through licensed independent agents and only where approved by state regulators

e INSIGHT -

online journal at www.iiaofil.org/Resources/Insight

JU N E 20 19

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10 Productive Business Projects for

RAINY DAYS

Day after day of rainy spring weather can affect your mood. But you can still be productive. By Bryce Sanders

In this month’s e-Insight. june 2019

insight

QUIET INFLUENCE

The

Introvert’s Guide to Making a Difference By Jennifer B. Kahnweiler, Ph.D., CSP

The following is an excerpt from “QUIET Influence: The Introvert’s Guide to Making a Difference” by Jennifer B. Kahnweiler, Ph.D., CSP. You can view the full excerpt or purchase the book at www. jenniferkahnweiler.com.

I-SCHOOLS

PRESENTED BY ICRMT

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WHO WE INSURE: » K-12 public schools

» Regional offices of education

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COVERAGE: » Public crisis response

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BOB SPRING Bob.Spring@ipmg.com 630.485.5885

MANAGED BY

WWW.IPMG.COM

Chicagoland IIA presents

Party in the Park Five Roses Irish Pub Rosemont, IL

June 20, 2019 This yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s event begins with a FREE Education Session:

Acheiving Social Media Success for Your Agency Knowing Your Audience - Clients and Prospects

3:00 - 5:00 pm CE Pending - Class Details Coming Soon

The party is $30 for members and $45 for non-members and includes appetizers & two drink vouchers from 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. followed by RUSH tribute band outdoor concert and fireworks at dusk.

Our Sponsors:

insight

june 2019

July 14-16 Delavan, WI

Enjoy Resort Amenities

Family Meals

Continuing Education

(save up to $130 per night)

(reception, breakfast, social event)

(golf, spa, boat/sport rentals, pools & more)

(receive up to six hours)

All of this for only $100 per agent and $60 per family member. Plus, each person gets a camp t-shirt!

Get all the details at

ILYoungAgents.com Companies: Show your support by sponsoring! june 2019

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INSIGHT | associate news Thank you to our Associate Members.

Diamond Level Members

Platinum Level Progressive

Gold Level AAA Insurance Arlington/Roe Blue Cross/Blue Shield of IL Surplus Line Association of Illinois

Silver Level Grinnell Mutual Reinsurance Company Imperial PFS IMT Insurance

Nationwide West Bend Mutual Insurance Co.

Bronze Level A. J. Wayne & Associates AMERISAFE Aon Programs Atlantic Specialty Lines Auto-Owners Insurance Co. Berkshire Hathaway Guard Insurance Companies Burns & Wilcox, Ltd. Chicagoland Carstar Columbia Insurance Group Continental Western Group Donald Gaddis Company, Inc. Donegal Insurance Group Encompass Insurance Erie Insurance Group Foremost Insurance Group Forreston Mutual Insurance Company Frankenmuth Insurance Grange Insurance Illinois Public Risk Fund Indiana Farmers Insurance Insurance Program Managers Group J C Restoration J M Wilson Kemper Keystone Insurance Group, Inc.

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KPA, LLC dba Succeed/KPA Larry Gordon Agency Liberty Mutual/Safeco Insurance Madison Mutual Insurance Company MarshBerry Maximum Independent Brokerage, LLC Mercury Insurance Group MetLife Auto & Home Midwest Insurance Company Motorists Insurance Group Nat Gen Premier NHRMA Mutual Workersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Compensation Previsor Insurance ProAg Management Inc PuroClean ServiceMaster DSI Society Insurance Transcom General Agency Travelers UIG - The Agent Agency United Fire Group Universal Property & Casualty Utica National Insurance Group W. A. Schickedanz Agency, Inc./Interstate Risk Placement Western National Insurance Westfield june 2019

iia of il news | INSIGHT

Education Classes june

6 6 10 11 12 18 18 20 25 25 26 27

Ethics & E&O: Synergy, Not Rivalry Webinar Farm Agents Council Annual Meeting Bloomington Ethics Rolling Meadows E&O: Roapmap to Policy Analysis Webinar CIC - Commercial Property Chicago CISR - Commercial Property Edwardsville CISR - Commercial Casualty 1 Rolling Meadows Ethics & Agent Liability Webinar CISR - Commercial Property Springfield E&O Risk Management Webinar CISR - Agency Operations Champaign E&O Risk Management Webinar

july

2 14 16 16 17 18 23 24 29

On Ethics: Data, Delimmas & Knuckleheads Webinar Young Agents Family Summer Camp Delavan, WI E&O: Roadmap to Policy Analysis Webinar CISR - Elements of Risk Management Springfield CIC - James K. Ruble Graduate Seminar Elk Grove Village Ethics - Walking a Straight Line Webinar E&O Risk Mangagement Webinar CISR - Agency Operations Rolling Meadows Ethics Chicago

Online Education www.iiaofil.org June & July Featured Online Classes General Homeowners | General PAP Property & Liability Concepts | Ethics & E&O When the Child Becomes the Parent- Aging Parents Business Income | Commercial General Liability E&O Roadmap to Policy Analysis | Ethics & the Law National Flood Insurance Program Basic Course Who is an Insured? | Workers Comp Insuring Trusts | Homeowners Hot Topics And More!

june 2019

New Members member agency SBJW Insurance Quincy, IL

For information regarding IIA of Illinois membership or company sponsorship, contact Tom Ross, Director of Membership Services, at (217) 321-3003, tross@iiaofil.org. insight

We Need

You!

Yes, You! The IIA of IL is looking for elite people who believe CE is more than just earning hours to keep a license up to date. We want people who really want to learn and further their careers in the insurance industry.

If this sounds like you, then please take a couple of hours out of your day to join us at a Mastermind Focus Group near you. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t stand for regular old CE programs anymore. Help us provide you the education you need to be the best at what you do each day. Breakfast or lunch will be provided.

May 23 - Chicago June 11 - Bloomington June 13 - Tinley Park June 20 - Springfield June 20 - Fairview Heights

June June June June

25 26 26 27

LaSalle Schaumburg/Rolling Meadows Naperville Effingham

Go to iiaofil.org/Mastermind-Groups for details.

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june 2019

Registration Opens in July

You must be registered for the event in order to reserve a room under the conference room block at the Crowne Plaza.

Exhibitor & Sponsor Opportunities Now Available Do you dance? Do you want to raise money for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital? Then be a part of “Dancing with the Agents!” This Wednesday evening event will be a fun-filled night for dancers and spectators. Contact Shannon Churchill at schurchill@iiaofil.org or (217) 321-3004 for details.

Get details at ILConvention.com.

june 2019

2019 CONVO Preliminary Agenda

Tuesday, October 1 10:00 - 4:00 p.m. Golf Outing Noon - 5:00 p.m. Registration 1:00 - 4:00 p.m. Education Sessions (CE) 5:00 - 6:00 p.m. Welcome Reception 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. Dutch Dine Arounds/Company Dinners 8:00 - 11:00 p.m. Young Agents Casino Night Wednesday, October 2 7:00 - 8:00 a.m. Continental Breakfast & Registration 8:00 a.m. - Noon General Session (CE) Noon - 1:00 p.m. Lunch and Networking 1:00 - 4:00 p.m. Education Session Breakouts (CE) 3:00 - 6:30 p.m. Tradeshow 6:30 - 11:00 p.m. Dinner, Party and Dancing with the “Agents” Thursday, October 3 7:00 - 8:30 a.m. Hot Breakfast 8:30 - 11:30 a.m. State of the Association Address & CEO Panel (CE)

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INSIGHT | people in the news Brett Gerger Joins IIA of IL as Director of Education and Agency Resources Brett Gerger, former Chief Deputy Director of the Illinois Department of Insurance, has joined the Independent Insurance Agents of Illinois (IIA of IL) as Director of Education & Agency Resources. In his new position, Gerger will have oversight over IIA of IL educational programs and will serve as the association’s primary resource for all regulatory and compliance issues. Prior to joining the IIA of IL, Gerger served as Chief Deputy Director of Product Lines and Licensing at the Illinois Department of Insurance and was responsible for management of the Property & Casualty; Life & Annuity; Health; Producer Regulatory; and Licensing Units. Most recently Gerger served as the State of Illinois Group Insurance Division Manager with the Illinois Department of Central Management Services. In that role, Gerger had oversight and management for the planning and implementation of policy and operations of the State’s insurance programs, including property, liability and benefits. Gerger started his 24-year career at the Illinois Department of Insurance in the Producer Regulatory Division. “On behalf of the IIA of IL Board of Directors we are excited to have Brett join the team at the IIA of IL,” said Phil Lackman, IIA of IL CEO. “Brett brings an extensive background in insurance and insurance regulation to the association and is nationally recognized as a leader in insurance regulation. We are in the process of launching several new educational programs and innovative new services for our members. Brett will be instrumental in the

Leffelman & Associates Named Rockford Mutual’s 2018 Insurance Agency of the Year

Rockford Mutual Insurance Company has named the Leffelman Agency, the family that knows how to treat your family, as Agency of the Year for 2018. Rockford Mutual has been a proud partner with the Leffelman Agency since it began in 1969. Respectively, Leffelman and Rockford Mutual have helped each other grow to what they are today. The staff at Leffelman is well respected within all departments at Rockford Mutual. President and CEO, Kent Shantz, adds “We are proud to have such a committed and service-oriented group of insurance professionals representing Rockford Mutual within their community. This recognition is just a small token of our appreciation for everything Leffleman does for our company every day.”

CNA Appoints Haas to Senior VicePresident, National Accounts Casualty CNA has appointed David Haas to the position of senior vice-president, national accounts casualty. Haas will be responsible for the profitability, growth and strategic direction of the company’s national accounts casualty business. He will report to CNA president and chief 38

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rollout of these programs and the strategic direction of the association.” “I have had the pleasure of knowing Brett in a professional capacity for almost twenty years,” said Patrick Muldowney, IIA of IL President. “In that time, I have seen Brett build excellent working relationships throughout the insurance industry, both here in Illinois and nationally. I am truly excited to have someone of Brett’s caliber join the association to lead our important new educational initiatives.” Gerger graduated Magna Cum Laude from the University of Illinois at Springfield with a degree in Business Administration. He serves as a village trustee in Chatham, Illinois and resides there with his wife and two children. See his staff profile on the opposite page.

operating officer of commercial lines, Kevin Leidwinger. Haas joined CNA in February 2017 as a branch manager in Florida. At the time he had more than 15 years of underwriting and field management experience. Before joining CNA, he served a variety of roles at AIG, from underwriting to management, over the course of 12 years and received his bachelor of business administration, risk management & insurance from Georgia State University.

Recognized Business Leader Joins Work At Home Vintage Experts (WAHVE) Dave Evans, recognized leader in the independent agency channel, has recently joined Work At Home Vintage Experts (WAHVE) as Senior Vice President of Business Development.

WAHVE, formed in 2010, is an innovative contract talent solution that matches retiring, experienced career professionals with a company’s talent needs. Evans’s business experience includes employee benefits consulting and two decades in association management with the Independent Agents & Brokers of America, Inc. (IIABA). His duties there included overseeing Big “I” MEP 401(k) Plan, the Trusted Choice consumer brand, company relations, magazine publisher and member development programs. Evans has authored over 150 articles and holds eleven industry designations. june 2019

Staff Profile Brett Gerger

Director of Education and Agency Resources

What do you/will you like most about your job? Being able to expand and enhance the services provided to various IIA of Illinois stakeholders as well as becoming an invaluable asset to those stakeholders. Tell us about the first job you ever had: I operated the fryer at Captain Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s. It lasted for a week as they could not accommodate my summer baseball schedule. If you could have any career other than this what would it be? Fighter pilot (Is that a career?) or Architect What is your favorite: Pastime: Wrestling (not WWE) Food: Pizza Movie: Hoosiers TV Show: Black List Band: U2 Tell us about your family: Wendy is my beautiful wife of 21 years been a certified hand therapist with SIU School of Medicine for 20+ years. We have 2 children, Maddox 14 and Mia 12. Wendy and I are extremely busy going in all different directions and places for their sports and extra curricular activities. We also have 2 dogs, Gigi Gaga Gerger (daughter named her) a 4 yr old havanese and Murphy Lee Gerger a 6 month old yellow lab (he is crazy). Name one thing on your bucket list: Diving the Great Barrier Reef What is your biggest fear? My daughterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s teenage years Of what are you most proud either personally or professionally? Personally, my wife and kids. Professionally, my career with the Department of Insurance. Name something people would be surprised to know about you. I was a two time Putt Putt State champion when I was 10 and repeated when I was 11.

june 2019

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INSIGHT | industry news J.M. Wilson Recognized as a ‘5 Star MBA’ J.M. Wilson has been recognized by Insurance Business America as being a ‘5 Star Wholesale Broker & MGA’. Retail insurance producers were surveyed by Insurance Business America to rate Wholesale Brokers and Managing General Agencies on the importance of key aspects they look for in an MGA, including: underwriting responsiveness/turnaround time, technical expertise and product knowledge, range of products, compensation, claims and marketing support, technology/automation, and communication. Producers awarded 27 MGA’s with the prestigious ‘5 Star’ status, with J.M. Wilson being one of them.

Insurance Business America is an insurance publication with an independent voice for the insurance industry, encompassing news analysis, expert opinion, exclusive interviews and business strategy advice for todays sophisticated insurance brokers, agents, and advice professionals. J.M. Wilson is a Managing General Agency and Surplus Lines Broker providing independent insurance agents access to specialty markets for both personal and commercial lines. With offices in eight states, J.M. Wilson is able to provide coverage for standard and hard-to-place commercial, transportation, property & casualty, brokerage, professional liability and errors and omissions, personal lines and surety classes in thirty-one states.

West Bend Mutual Insurance Named Top/Best Workplace

WHAT THE HAIL JUST HAPPENED? NO WORRIES, CALL US.

West Bend Mutual Insurance Company was once again named to this year’s list of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel’s Top Workplaces which recognizes the best places to work in Southeast Wisconsin. A total of 150 companies were named to the Top Workplaces list in 2019. Ranked number two in the large company category, this is the eighth consecutive year in which West Bend has placed in the top four. Great Place to Work® and Fortune Magazine also named West Bend one of the top-30 Best Workplaces in Financial Services & Insurance.

HOMEOWNERS INSURANCE THAT’S DESIGNED TO BE WORRY FREE A home is one of the most valuable assets. Whether it is a current homeowner, someone looking to own, or someone renting a home, financial protection is needed for the important things in life. A homeowners policy from IMT Insurance can help your policyholders Be Worry Free. Learn how you can represent IMT Insurance at imtins.com/contact.

AUTO | HOME | BUSINESS

insight

june 2019

industry news | INSIGHT Acuity Named a Best Employer by Forbes Acuity has been named to Forbes America’s Best Mid-Size Employers list. “We are honored to be recognized among Forbes America’s Best Mid-Sized Employers and take pride in the great workplace we have built together,” said Ben Salzmann, Acuity President and CEO. “Being a great workplace benefits everyone who depends on Acuity—our employees and their families, independent agents, and the many individuals, families, businesses, and workers who count on us to protect what matters most to them.” “We are committed to being a great employer,” said Joan Ravanelli Miller, Acuity General Counsel and Vice President - Human Resources. “Being a workplace people want to be a part of is the foundation of Acuity’s high job satisfaction, low turnover, and industry-leading results.”

In developing its list, Forbes asked more than 50,000 people working for U.S. companies employing at least 1,000 people to rate their willingness to recommend those companies. Employees who took part in the survey were not contacted through their employers but, rather, did so through online panels that provided a representative sample of the U.S. workforce. Acuity was also named to Forbes America’s Best MidSize Employers list in 2018, as well as to Forbes’ Best Employers for Women and Best Employers for Diversity. In 2018, Acuity also earned a Silver Stevie® Award for Great Employers. Acuity Insurance, headquartered in Sheboygan, Wisconsin, insures over 100,000 businesses, including 300,000 commercial vehicles, and nearly a half million homes and private passenger autos across 27 states. Rated A+ by A.M. Best and S&P, Acuity employs over 1,300 people.

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INSIGHT | classifieds for the insurance professional by the insurance professional

POSITION AVAILABLE.

65. Madison Mutual Insurance Co. is seeking motivated self-starters with strong organizational skills to join our Marketing Team as F/T Marketing Representatives in Central and Northern IL as well as Southern IL and MO. Applicants must reside in their assigned territory and have a bachelor’s degree or a minimum of five years’ experience in insurance sales and/or marketing. The Marketing Representative: * Services existing agencies in assigned territory * Promotes MMIC products and provides training * Ensures agent compliance with company procedures * And much more!

OPPORTUNITIES/SPACE AVAILABLE/RETAIN OWNERSHIP

13. We are a 100 year old Northbrook agency looking to discuss any mutually beneficial opportunity. Our producers, mergers, clusters and agency purchases receive 50% commissions on new and renewal business without any expenses. We can provide: office space, phones, agency management system, service renewals and changes. The companies we represent are: Badger Mutual, Employers Mutual, General Casualty, Guide One, Hartford, Kemper, Progressive, Rockford Mutual, Safeco, State Auto, Travelers and Met Life. Contact:

Interested candidates should send their salary requirements and resume to careers@madisonmutual. com.

Nancy Solomon Martini, Miller & Schloss, Inc. (847) 291-1313 Ron@martini-miller.com

AGENCY/AGENTS/PRODUCERS WANTED.

SHARED SPACE FOR RENT

02. Forest Park/Oak Park agency for over 60 years, will meet your needs by providing space, markets, marketing & sales support, automation, merging with or purchasing your agency. Perpetuation/ Succession Plans, BuySell Agreements also available. We have experienced, educated and dedicated staff for you and your clients. Have access to our numerous companies, office services and many other resources. Retain ownership in your book with contingency. Please look closely at us- we are an agency you want to do business with! We’ve done it before, we know how- we make it easy! Visit our website at forestagency.com/agents.html, or call for a confidential discussion and a list of Agency benefits. Dan Browne will provide an agency evaluation/appraisal at little cost to you. Please call:

99. 6400 SF office located at 127 N. Walnut St., Itasca, has availability for startups, insurance agents, salespeople, consultants, professionals, etc.; who are in need of class A space without the cost. Monthly fees range from $375 and include: Receptionist/Clerical, internet, conference rooms, kitchen, classroom/break room. Printing and clerical services are also available. Short term or long-term rentals are available. Wed are in downtown Itasca across from the Metra station. Close to expressways. For information contact:

Dino Gavanes 630-779-0566 or dino_gavanes@advisersinc.com

AGENCY WANTED.

Dan Browne or Cathy Hall Forest Agency (708) 383-9000 www.forestagency.com/contact-us/mergersacquisitions/

20. Since 2004, Central Illinois Agents Group LLC has been providing independent agents with a variety of markets with contingency opportunities. Agents have availability to several markets that they may not be able to sustain or maintain on their own. We have markets for personal, commercial, agricultural and crop insurance lines. Let us help you get to the next level.

GET DIRECT APPOINTMENTS.

Visit www.ciagonline.com for contact information.

64. At IPA we have been helping agents start their very own independent insurance agencies for over 13 years. We’ve developed a unique system to help you get direct appointments with the nation’s top carriers. Visit our website for a quick overview video to see how it all works. Plus, find out how existing independent agents are INSTANTLY earning more by moving to IPA!

Visit www.insuranceproagencies.com/iia for details.

insight

june 2019

Acuity loves you!

We are proud of the relationships we have built with the best independent agents in the world!

www.acuity.com

Expect big things in workers’ compensation. Most classes approved, nationwide. It pays to get a quote from Applied.® For information call (877) 234-4450 or visit auw.com/us. Follow us at bigdoghq.com.