Futureproof: Building Success through Relationships and Education

Welcome to the inaugural edition of Futureproof!

Aspire Insurance Solutions ’ new LinkedIn newsletter, your go-to resource designed to equip you with the insights, strategies, and tools needed to thrive in the ever-evolving insurance industry. Each edition of Futureproof is crafted with one goal in mind: to help you stay ahead of the curve by providing actionable advice, success stories, and expert guidance tailored specifically for insurance agents like you.

In this first edition, we dive into key takeaways from a recent episode of the Whiskey & Insurance Podcast featuring our very own, Ryan M Smith , Vice President of Sales and Operations at Aspire Insurance Solutions. You'll gain valuable perspectives on building lasting client relationships, navigating industry challenges, and leveraging the tools available to drive your business forward.

So let's dive in!

The Power of Relationships in Insurance

Ryan’s journey into the insurance world started with a simple goal: to provide value and protection to clients. But as he shared on the Whiskey and Insurance Podcast, it’s not just about the products or the sales; it’s about the relationships you build along the way.

"Trust your gut, build relationships, and always strive to provide the best for your clients.”

🔑 Key Insight: Ryan emphasized that success in insurance isn’t just about making a sale—it’s about creating clients for life. He shared a compelling story about spending over a year building a relationship with an agent, despite not securing a contract during that time. His dedication to providing ongoing support ultimately led to a strong and lasting partnership.

Educate, Equip, Empower

At Aspire, we believe that education is the cornerstone of success. Ryan’s approach to working with agents is a testament to this. He doesn’t just hand over contracts and walk away; he educates agents on effectively selling products, asking for referrals, and building lasting client relationships.

💡Practical Tip: Ryan highlights the importance of understanding your client’s needs and confidently recommending the best products for them. For instance, instead of casually asking for referrals, Ryan suggests leading clients to think about who in their circle could benefit from the same protection. This ensures the conversation is purposeful and productive.

The Tissue Story: A Lesson in Resilience

One of the most memorable moments from the podcast was when Ryan shared what he calls "the tissue story." In a tough moment early in his career, Ryan’s mentor challenged him with a simple question: "Are you going to fold up like a tissue or stand strong?" This advice has stuck with him throughout his career, reminding him to stay resilient even when the going gets tough.

Watch the clip of Ryan sharing the tissue story:

Looking Ahead

As we move forward, Futureproof will continue to bring you actionable insights, stories, and strategies to help you stay ahead in this competitive industry. Whether you’re a seasoned agent or just starting out, our goal is to empower you with the knowledge and tools to build a successful and sustainable business.

Watch the full episode below to hear Ryan’s story firsthand:

We’re here to support you every step of the way, ensuring that you’re not just making sales, but creating clients for life.

Stay tuned for more insights, and don’t hesitate to reach out if there’s a topic you’d like us to cover.

Let’s continue to build a brighter, more secure future—together 🚀

Want to learn more about how we can help you thrive in the insurance industry? 🤔

Visit aspireinsurancesolutions.com to discover all the ways we support agents like you in building a successful, future-proof career.