Erin Dop is a multi-line insurance producer and third-generation insurance professional at Fullenkamp Insurance, the agency her grandfather started in 1963. She is the latest CPCU designee in her family and is active in the Independent Insurance Agents of Iowa (IIAI) association. Erin was the recipient of the C. Daniel Fullwider Young Agents of the Year award for the state of Iowa in 2021. She continues to promote the industry through her efforts with the IIAI on various committees including the education committee and as the current young agent committee chair. In today's episode of the In The Know podcast, Erin joins Chris Hampshire for a conversation about growing up in the insurance industry, how digital evolutions affect small agencies, and the value of Erin's CPCU designation and involvement in the CPCU Society.

Key Takeaways

• The motivation behind Erin's decision to follow the family path into insurance.

• An average day in the life of Erin's work at Fullenkamp Insurance.

• Business acquisition and retention for a regional agency in the age of digital insurance.

• Erin's team educates clients with newsletters, in-person meetings, and a personal connection.

• A look at digital evolutions on the small agency front.

• Attracting and retaining talent starts with a robust compensation package.

• Erin's message to new talent is to just give it a shot.

• The social impact aspect of the insurance industry is an attractive feature for the next generation.

• Erin highlights her scholarship opportunities and the professional and personal importance of her CPCU designation.

• The impact of involvement in the CPCU Society on Erin's career.

• A five-year forecast for the future at Fullenkamp Insurance.

• Erin's advice to her early-career self.

Quotes

● "It's tough to move completely to a digital standpoint when the relationship is so key."

● "It can be tough to get people excited about working in the insurance industry if they've never had a conversation with their agent."

● "Why insurance? Why not! Why not give it a try?"

● "If I have questions or concerns… I know I can reach out to someone in the CPCU Society."

● "We are all after the same goal of doing what's right for the insured."