There's more to being a successful entrepreneur than running a business. The foundation of entrepreneurship is innovation. Much of your success will come from taking calculated risks while also understanding the essential functions of running a business. The fastest way to succeed as an entrepreneur is to learn by doing. However, you can create a framework to speed up your learning process and hit the ground running.
Become a Successful Entrepreneur
Whether it's starting your own independent insurance agency or another business, the first time you invest in yourself is going to feel scary and overwhelming. It's natural to feel like you're unprepared. While you can get the practical elements together, like startup capital, a business degree, etc., there will be unfamiliar elements.
Set yourself up for success:
- Outsource what you can to run your business more efficiently
- Surround yourself with the right people and the right tools to speed up your learning process
- Join a network and seek guidance from professionals
Outsource
Most entrepreneurs feel like they have to do everything themselves. That is not necessarily true. The best option is to stick to what you know and then surround yourself with professionals in other areas to help you do the rest. That applies to your finances too. Hiring a good bookkeeper and a CPA sounds like an expense, but in reality, it is an investment that will help you do things the best way.
Find A Mentor
Not just anyone. A good one. You will need someone you can trust, who can teach you from experience how things work in the entrepreneurial world. This way, you will see all sides of an entrepreneur's journey.
AAI-affiliated agency owners have at least two years of experience working as a captive agent or for another independent agency before starting their own. A solid foundation in your industry is essential to being a successful agency owner and entrepreneur.
Join A Network
It may not sound like a lot of fun, but the truth is, you cannot take the power of networking for granted. Whether you decide to regularly attend networking events or start by getting active in your community, it is always a good thing to spend time with other entrepreneurs and exchange some knowledge about leadership, marketing, sales strategies, and more.
Become An AAI-Affiliated Agency Owner
We provide the tools, training, and technology for captive agents to transition into the independent world or for existing agency owners to level up and grow bigger, faster, more efficiently.
AAI-Affiliated agents earn higher commissions and close rates thanks to cutting-edge technology, state-of-the-art training, and a team approach.
With AAI, you are independent but not alone.