Just Started in Florida

[VolAgent]

New York Life, Northwestern Mutual, MassMutual, MetLife, and Guardian are probably some of the top tier career shops. They look to work with business owners and HNW families. A step down are companies like Mutual of Omaha and AGLA. There are plenty of others, go look for them. You are going to have to talk to them all and see where you fit best. The GA and sales manager are going to have a much bigger role in your success or failure than the company.

A big problem to watch out for is a sales manager that burns through new recruits. You want to make sure he is going to have time to work with you, and that there are senior agents in the office to work with. If you don't see anyone with more than 10 years of experience, preferrable with that company, run! And that is in addition to the GA and sales manager. If your prospective manager has less than 5 years in the business, and really 10, don't even bother interviewing.

 

[rags2riches]

Where in Florida are you located? I'm in Sarasota on the SW coast, and interviewed with a lot of different agencies back when I was a captive agent. I might know of a few places for you try as well.I defenitely agree with Vol, you need to get some experience, "cut your teeth" so to speak at an agency first - It will pay off long term for you to learn this business prior to running on your own.Could it be done on your own? Of course but, that's a decision that only you can make. The safer bet is to learn as much as you can about a couple different lines or even just one. Ask as many questions as possible, and spend your time there wisely. Good luck Kenneth...

 

[KennethFach]

Thanks much for the counsel. I am in Tallahassee, Florida.

 

[marbella]

I would advise you get some more experience before becoming an IA. I'm in the process right now of becoming an IA after 6 years with a captive company in Fort Myers, I'm the main producer for my agent in P&C and Life. Kenneth Please give us an update on what you are up to now, since this post was over a year 1/2 ago. Hope to hear from you soon.
Best of luck.
Michael.