For many people, especially introverts, the word “networking” might make you cringe. But for the independent adjuster, it is a huge key to your success. Maybe it feels a little fake or “sales-pitchy” to put yourself out there, but when you change your paradigm surrounding networking, you may find it to be fulfilling. Joe Sweeney, author of Networking is a Contact Sport talks about how at its core, networking is about giving. He says, “The concept of engaging others with an attitude of giving, not getting, will enrich your relationships and your life.” He has a 4-step approach to networking:

1. Learn to ask the right questions.
2. Be a good listener.
3. Follow up with action.
4. Believe & Receive. Have faith in yourself and in what you’re doing. Have faith that when you truly give to others, you’ll receive more than you’ll ever give.

If this idea of networking being where you go to give, not to get, feels counterintuitive, you can read more about Sweeney’s unconventional networking tips here.

Think of networking as a long-term vision of investing in others and helping them see success. Over the long haul you will see a return on this investment, but the reward of taking an interest in others and helping them will fulfill you even before you see the return.

When you build a network through authenticity and integrity, you’ll find networking isn’t so bad after all. Jason Heenan of the Adjuster Talk Podcast, talks about how the difference between a $60,000 a year adjuster and a $200,000 a year adjuster is his network.

So where do you network? Well, the first way you’ll network is on the job hunt itself. Once you have your license, start looking for work online. Make contact with as many insurance companies or adjusting firms as possible. Keep contact with these companies you reach out to. Many people make the mistake of only reaching out to the big name companies. Don’t ignore the smaller companies! Building relationships there can sometimes be even easier. Continue to build relationships with recruiters.

Networking with other adjusters is also a big part of the industry. Pre-pandemic there were many events or in-person courses or conferences where you could make valuable connections with other adjusters or industry leaders. As those become more common again, attend them whenever possible and safe to do so. But for now, you can find the best networking opportunities online. There are social media groups specifically for independent adjusters, and online forums where you can have conversations and make connections virtually. Use social media to connect to adjusting groups and purposefully search out and connect to other adjusters. In some ways this enables you to widen the net you cast in networking because you are not limited by local geography. The internet connects people all over the country! Who knows what doors it can open for you. Search for mentors, experts, and leaders in the industry through social media and follow their content… see what they talk about. You will probably find their content relevant and you’ll be able to learn from them.

Prioritizing networking will help you become more connected, grow your business and give your life meaning.

 

Happy Networking!

 

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