Q&A WITH JASON RODRIGUEZ

Jason is CEO at Prominent Insurance Services in Wilmington, DE. He also serves as chairman of the Delaware Association of IA&B.

Q. First and foremost, what (or who) prompted you to enter the insurance industry?

A. I got into insurance because I had a transportation company and was paying a lot in insurance. As an entrepreneur, I wanted to know how I could get some of that money back. This prompted me to have a conversation with my agent at that time and ask all about insurance. This was my introduction to the industry.

Q. What do you know now that you wish you’d known when you first opened your agency? We’re looking for lessons learned – the hard way!

A. I wish I would have learned to find a mentor to teach and train me. I was all over the place with no clear direction of what line of business I wanted to go after. Not having a clear vision had me waste a lot of time going after Three generations... business that was not my ideal client.

Q. On the flipside, what did you get right from the beginning?

A. Being an entrepreneur, I knew how to sell right from the beginning. This is what allowed me to stay in business during the first years after obtaining my license.

Q. Thinking ahead, what challenges and opportunities do you foresee for the industry in the next few years? And how are you and your agency preparing?

A. I see the industry being disrupted by insurtech companies, and we, as agents, must adapt to make the end-user experience more enjoyable and streamlined.

Q. How do you define success – personally or professionally?

A. I define success personally to be a person of integrity, morals, values, and respect. To be the example that you desire to see in the world. Also to do my part on making this world a better place to live.

Q. You’re on the Delaware Association of IA&B Government Relations Committee and have attended the Big “I” National Legislative Convention several times. What drives your interest in politics?

A. What drives my interest is regulation, and also making our government representatives aware of our industry and how we can help them serve their constituents.

Q. Let’s play ‘Five Favorites’! What’s your favorite …?

A. Way to network? In-person events

A. Tech tool for work? iPhone

A. Way to unwind? Long drives

A. Sports team? New York Giants

A. Benefit of IA&B membership (shameless plug!)? The staff (*smiling*)