Page 6 - Shaw Wall of Honor

FEMALE AGENCY OWNER
The year was 2002; I had just graduated high school and was pursuing my passion of interior design. My plan was to get my bachelor degree; however, life had other plans. During that time my parents were let go from their corporate jobs and at the age of 50 decided to take the leap of faith and pursue entrepreneurship. They opened a scratch Allstate agency and that’s when I needed to switch gears to assist. This is when my insurance career began as a CSR and, truth be told, I was angry. I was angry because I wasn’t doing what I loved; I wasn’t pursuing my passion.
Fast forward twenty years, and here I am owning an agency. While the insurance industry continues to be heavily male-dominated, especially in the agency owner and commercial producer space, I have witnessed a positive shift in the industry for women. I’m so grateful
I didn’t let my anger get the best of me twenty years ago, because now my story gets to be included in a small piece of the history that changed our industry.
Like most debates, there are so many factors that come into play when discussing this topic of why the insurance industry is so male- dominated. I try not to focus on that, because my philosophy is that we recognize it, but we don’t dwell on it. Here are four ways I believe we can make an impact as women in a male- dominated industry.
Get Educated
If you want to succeed in a competitive industry, such as insurance, you need to get educated. Taking the time to gain knowledge and get designations such as Certified Insurance Counselor (CIC) or Certified Risk Manager (CRM) from the National Alliance, is one way to show your competitors and prospects you are serious about your business and more than capable of having a seat at the table.
WRITTEN BY
CIARA GRAIVER
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