The inaugural meeting of the New Brokers Roundtable (created by the RCCAQ) was held on April 12. The goal was to discuss concerns and issues encountered by younger insurance entrepreneurs. Here's a look at the first in a series of meetings that look to be highly promising!

Legitimate concerns

Although the professionals seated around the table were 35 years of age or younger, they're still shrewd managers—and their reading of the brokerage sector in the future and their place in it is crystal clear.

Of course, the legislative issues associated with Bills 141 and 150 and their impacts on brokerage firm development are central concerns. In this regard, the RCCAQ reminded the attendees of its stands on the issues, its lobbying efforts with elected officials and the various steps taken to defend the brokerage sector. But these changes also raise a number of key questions, such as integrating new technologies and finding potential financing for new investments.

Seeking solutions

Even though there is no ready-made answer to these concerns, the issues were addressed from a "seeking solutions" perspective. For young leaders who care about the ongoing viability of the brokerage industry, opportunities are within reach. It is merely a question of capitalizing on these opportunities depending not only on market conditions and the legislative framework, but also on each individual firm's positioning, clientele and business model.

Emphasis was placed on specialization, promoting the profession and changing the culture to adjust to a digital environment without losing touch with our roots. But first and foremost, the client experience focus generated a sense of consensus among the attendees. Consumers' needs and expectations, not to mention evolving purchasing habits in the personal as well as the commercial business lines, are among the main transformations being embraced by firms today.

Indeed, a number of areas mentioned for future consideration correspond to initiatives or projects put in place by the RCCAQ to assist brokers, e.g. creating a new technology committee, releasing the results of the payroll survey, setting up roundtables so RCCAQ members can voice their concerns and maintaining ongoing relationships with elected officials.

First in a series of meetings

RCCAQ chair Christopher Johnson, himself a member of this generation seeking to leave its mark, noted the strong spirit of collaboration among the brokers in attendance. "This type of meeting is very valuable. It's a unique opportunity to gain perspective and to bring in different and enriching viewpoints," he said. "We are delighted to have created this opportunity, which will enable us to see where these young professionals are at and to find out more about their aspirations."

Various ideas were launched, some of which will serve to facilitate the RCCAQ's own discussion process. Whether we are seeking to define brokers' roles, keeping up with business management best practices and technological advances or maintaining regular networking opportunities, the underlying goal is to get involved.

This meeting will certainly not be an isolated event. In fact, the New Brokers Roundtable is now an official part of the RCCAQ's program of activities!

Did you miss the inaugural meeting of the Roundtable? Would you like to take part in future meetings? Please contact us. We will be pleased to send you an invitation to the next meeting.