In today’s competitive landscape, keeping an eye on what other independent agencies are doing is not just helpful — it’s necessary. Whether you're new to the insurance industry or a seasoned independent agency owner,[...]

Technology is transforming how small commercial independent insurance agencies operate — and those that embrace digital tools are gaining a clear competitive edge. As consumers increasingly expect fast, seamless digital[...]

With recent Federal Reserve rate cuts, many independent agency owners are rethinking how to grow their businesses. As borrowing becomes more affordable, some are considering debt financing as a means to support[...]

Affordable American Insurance (AAI) is pleased to announce that Ross Haskett has joined the organization as Vice President of Sales. This strategic hire strengthens AAI’s national sales presence and supports the[...]

For many insurance customers, your website is their very first impression of your agency. The way your site looks, feels, and functions can determine whether they stay and explore — or bounce after a few seconds. A[...]

Feedback isn’t just something to check off during annual reviews — it’s a powerful tool for growth, trust, and team development. When delivered thoughtfully, feedback becomes a gateway to better communication and[...]

The pandemic sparked a wave of professionals rethinking their careers — and for many, the idea of becoming independent and owning a business became more appealing than ever. In a time of uncertainty, gaining control[...]

When faced with a choice — whether personal or professional — we often focus on the cost of doing something: the time, money, or energy it might take. But rarely do we ask ourselves, “What will it cost me if I don’t[...]

When it comes to running an independent insurance agency, protecting your data is essential. If your agency management system (AMS) were to go down due to a natural disaster, cyberattack, or technical failure, would you[...]

What happens to your insurance agency when you're ready to retire or can no longer run the business? For independent agency owners, that question is at the heart of perpetuation planning — a crucial yet often overlooked[...]

If you’ve been feeling stuck or unfulfilled in your current job, especially during uncertain times, it might be time to consider a career change. While many industries struggled through the pandemic, others — like[...]

In today’s competitive landscape, building long-term relationships with your clients is more important than ever — especially in the insurance industry, where in-person meetings are increasingly rare. Retaining your[...]

Rising dissatisfaction among captive insurance agents is redefining the industry landscape as more seek greater freedom and opportunity.

We’re proud to announce that Affordable American Insurance (AAI) has been recognized as one of the Top 10 fastest growing companies in Colorado in our bracket by the Denver Business Journal as part of their annual Fast[...]

For many individuals and small businesses, getting traditional insurance can be a frustrating challenge — especially when they’re considered “too risky” by conventional standards. Whether due to a high-risk job,[...]

Sales prospecting is a vital step in building and sustaining a successful independent insurance agency. At the heart of every strong sales funnel is a clear strategy to convert sales prospects into loyal, long-term[...]

In an increasingly volatile insurance landscape, the personal umbrella market has experienced significant shifts. Rising inflation, more frequent and severe claims, and worsening loss ratios have changed the way[...]

What makes your independent insurance agency stand out to customers and employees? Many agencies point to excellent service or competitive pricing, but today’s consumers and workers are looking for something more[...]

In today's digital-first world, phone communication remains a vital tool for connecting with customers. In fact, nearly 80% of consumers say phone calls are important when communicating with businesses — especially for[...]

In the aftermath of the pandemic, businesses continue to face significant workforce challenges — from adjusting to remote work to weathering economic instability. While many companies strive to avoid workforce[...]

Winning new clients is an exciting part of growing your business — but signing a client is just the beginning. To build long-term success, you need a solid strategy for client retention. Developing strong client[...]

Many independent insurance agency owners wonder if Employment Practices Liability Insurance (EPLI) is a necessary expense. Unlike Errors & Omissions (E&O) insurance, EPLI is not a required policy. However, if your[...]

Running a small business comes with daily obstacles — some minor, others more daunting. But how you respond to these challenges ultimately shapes your path to success. Flexibility, perseverance, and the right mindset[...]

The rise of remote work during the pandemic has brought many changes to the workplace — and not just in how we work, but also in how employment risks are managed. One key issue gaining attention is remote work[...]

For many retail insurance agents, reinsurance might seem like something only carriers need to worry about. But in today’s hard market, rising reinsurance costs are a major driver of increasing premiums—and that impacts[...]

As independent insurance agencies navigate the second half of 2025, many are exploring new ways to accelerate growth and stay competitive. One of the most impactful tools available is a bank loan. From funding[...]

Starting an independent insurance agency is an exciting opportunity — but just like your clients, your business needs proper protection. Before you sell a single policy, it's essential to have the right insurance in[...]

New technology offers enormous potential for independent insurance agencies looking to improve efficiency, boost productivity, and better serve clients. However, without a well-thought-out integration strategy, even the[...]

For independent insurance agencies, selecting the right technology is more than just a strategic decision — it’s a vital one. As agencies grow and adapt to evolving market demands, technology plays a central role in[...]

Looking for a refreshing way to recharge your team and make a positive impact this summer? Planning a community service event could be the perfect answer. It’s not only a great excuse to step away from the desk, but it[...]

Branding might seem overwhelming — especially when you’re managing everything solo as an independent insurance agent — but it’s a key factor in your long-term success. A clear and consistent brand not only makes your[...]

While digital marketing may dominate the conversation, direct mail has made a notable comeback — and it’s proving to be highly effective, especially for independent insurance agencies. This traditional marketing method[...]

Every successful independent insurance agency eventually faces a critical question: What’s the plan for perpetuation? Ensuring a smooth internal transition requires careful planning, strategic financial structuring, and[...]

We’re proud to share that our CEO and President, Chris Fernandez, has been featured in Forbes for his visionary leadership and transformative impact in the insurance and technology sectors.

Recording phone conversations with insureds can provide critical documentation in the event of an errors and omissions (E&O) claim. However, it is essential to implement best practices for recording, storing, and[...]

Many people hesitate to buy life insurance because they don’t fully understand how it works or how much coverage they need. As an independent insurance agent, you can turn this hesitation into an opportunity by[...]

Referrals are one of the most powerful ways to grow your independent insurance agency. If your customers are happy with your service, you might wonder why they aren’t referring more people to you.

Artificial intelligence (AI) is making waves in the insurance industry, and while the initial hype is settling, its potential is undeniable. As AI continues to evolve, independent insurance agents must carefully[...]

The insurance industry faces ongoing challenges in attracting new talent, particularly younger workers. While much attention has been given to Generation Z, many other professionals are eager for a career change. This[...]

When an independent insurance agency takes over a client’s policy through an agent of record (AOR) letter, there may be concerns about potential coverage deficiencies. Some agencies consider adding disclaimer language[...]

Cold calling is largely ineffective, with less than 2% of calls resulting in a meeting, according to The Harvard Business Review. Meanwhile, text messages boast a 45% response rate compared to just 8% for emails,[...]

Mergers and acquisitions (M&A) within the insurance industry continue to surge, creating significant opportunities for both buyers and sellers. To maximize the benefits of this dynamic market, it's essential to[...]

Starting an independent insurance agency is a challenging yet rewarding endeavor. Success requires providing clients with unique services and value that set your agency apart. While the journey can seem overwhelming,[...]

Brain drain occurs when experienced employees retire or leave for competitors, taking invaluable industry knowledge with them. For independent insurance agencies, this presents a significant challenge. Many[...]

Social media has become an essential tool for independent insurance agencies to connect with clients, showcase expertise, and grow their business. With the rise of artificial intelligence (AI), managing social media has[...]

In today's evolving independent insurance agency landscape, leadership is no longer reserved for top executives. Agencies are increasingly recognizing the importance of fostering leadership skills at all levels,[...]

Making the transition from a captive agent to an independent agency owner is a bold move that offers both freedom and new challenges. As your own boss, you’ll need discipline, vision, and strategic planning to build a[...]

Over the past decade, mergers and acquisitions (M&A) in the insurance brokerage industry have been making headlines. In 2023, there were 555 announced transactions, marking a 44% decline from the 977 deals in 2021.[...]

Catastrophic (CAT) events are becoming more frequent and costly. Over the past five years, the National Centers for Environmental Information (NCEI) has recorded over 20 such events annually, with damages totaling[...]

In-Depth Feature: CEO Chris Fernandez’s 40 Under 40 Recognition We are proud to feature an exclusive look at our CEO, Chris Fernandez, and his recognition as one of the 2025 Denver Business Journal 40 Under 40 Winners.[...]

In today’s fast-paced business world, effective leadership is more critical than ever. However, even the most seasoned leaders can face challenges in honing their leadership skills. This is where leadership coaching[...]

Every independent insurance agency owner eventually faces a plateau. When business momentum slows down, it can negatively impact your confidence. However, plateaus are a natural part of the business growth cycle, and[...]

Effective communication is vital to the success of any independent insurance agency, and email remains a powerful tool for educating customers, fostering loyalty, and driving retention. However, managing a high volume[...]

In today’s competitive business environment, a healthier workforce is a key driver of organizational success. However, the path to achieving this goal often encounters a significant hurdle: while employees aspire to[...]

In today’s competitive business landscape, knowledge truly is power. For independent insurance agency owners, leveraging the right type of data can mean the difference between stagnant growth and thriving success. While[...]

Artificial intelligence (AI) has revolutionized various industries, and the insurance sector is no exception. While much of the discussion around AI in insurance focuses on tackling fraud, a lesser-known yet critical[...]

As employee expectations evolve alongside rapid technological advancements, organizations face increasing pressure to offer compelling benefits packages. To attract and retain top talent, businesses must strike a[...]

Adapting to the modern insurance landscape is no longer optional — it's essential. InsurTech, the innovative integration of technology in insurance, has become the missing link for independent agencies aiming to boost[...]

Proven Strategies to Boost Your Business Income as an Independent Agency Owner Running a profitable and growing business requires a blend of innovation, efficiency, and disciplined budget management. For independent[...]

The insurance industry is evolving rapidly, driven by technological advancements and the rise of remote work. Many agencies that transitioned to remote operations during the pandemic have maintained flexible work[...]

When a commercial client dissolves their business but continues to insure vehicles under the business auto policy (BAP), unique complications can arise. An example would be a client choosing to retain their vehicles[...]

Feedback plays a vital role in growing any business, especially in industries like insurance, where customer service and building strong client relationships are key. Asking for feedback can feel daunting, but it’s an[...]

Errors & omissions (E&O) claims handlers know they aren’t the people policyholders are eager to chat with. While we appreciate the rare policyholder who enjoys calling us, we understand most of you are more focused on[...]

The use of the word “blanket” in the context of additional insured endorsements on certificates of insurance (COIs) has been a subject of debate. Some insurance professionals believe it is permissible to reference[...]

Every independent insurance agency owner strives to increase the value of their business. Improving agency value enhances its appeal to prospective buyers and positions it for long-term success. Focusing on key[...]

Every interaction a client or potential prospect has with your brand should reflect your independent insurance agency's personality and values. Your office atmosphere can significantly influence how your brand is[...]

For independent insurance agents, building credibility is essential, and public relations (PR) can be a powerful way to increase brand awareness, strengthen your reputation, and set yourself apart from competitors. Many[...]

As we step into 2025, the labor market continues to shift in response to technological advancements, economic changes, and social factors. Staying informed about these trends is crucial for businesses navigating hiring,[...]

We are delighted to share the exciting news that Chris Fernandez, CEO of AAI, has been recognized by the Denver Business Journal as one of its 2025 40 Under 40 honorees. This distinguished list highlights accomplished[...]

As we move into 2025, the employment landscape has shifted. The Great Resignation has subsided, recruitment markets have stabilized, and inflation rates are lower. While these developments offer some relief for[...]

Transitioning from being a captive insurance agent to running your own independent insurance agency is an exciting step. While your goals may remain the same, the role you play will evolve. Independent agency ownership[...]

For independent insurance agencies, selecting the right technology is one of the most important decisions they will face. Choosing the right partner to streamline operations and drive growth can significantly impact the[...]

As seasoned producers approach retirement, agencies must invest in nurturing new talent to ensure continued growth. A strategic approach to helping new producers validate — where their commissions match the cost of[...]