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INDEPENDENT INSURANCE AGENTS OF SOUTH DAKOTA September 2020
INDEPENDENT INSURANCE AGENTS OF SOUTH DAKOTA
September 2020
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Meet Benji Hammell Title: Producer
Agency: KPI Insurance
Agency Location: Chamberlain, SD
Age: 27
Recently binged TV show: ”Bloodline”
In your earbuds: Bryce Vine, Tyler Childers Most used app: Instagram
What do you love about insurance? Providing people with the opportunity of trust and relief. It is rewarding knowing I am able to help clients protect themselves as well as their livelihood. As an agent, there is always something new to learn as well as teach a fellow peer. There is a sense of accomplishment when you can help a customer financially recover from something they never thought was possible. Lastly, it always feels great to hear people say how much money I am saving them.
Who is your role model? My role model is my dad. He has always taught me the core values of how to take care of “things” as well as people. The older I get, the more I realize a lot of his values have stuck with me to this day. He has always pushed me to be the best at whatever I do.
Work-life balance? I enjoy having a self-paced work ethic which fits perfectly with my day-to-day tasks. It is nice to rely on myself and complete work as needed, when needed. To balance my work-life, I keep my work material at work. I believe in working hard, but there also needs to be separation between work and family. As soon as I am done for the day, it is time to move on and take care of myself. I believe work should hold a great priority in life; but I think living a happy and healthy life is more important at the end of the day.
Jason Kelling Commercial [email protected]
605.274.7129
Great Plains Brokerage, Making Excess & Surplus Lines Insur-
ance Quick & Easy. Specializing in Hard to Place Property &
Casualty, Dwellings, and Farm/Ranch Exclusively through in-
dependent Agents.
A Year to Forget that will not be Forgotten!
We’ve never lived through a pandemic before. In the matter of a few short days, our lives turned upside down; schools closed, businesses stopped; we all stayed home and learned what it meant to social distance. At first, I have to admit, it was a bit novel. It didn’t take long for the novelty to wear off and reality set in. Technology took over our homes and workplace as we pulled together to battle this virus that kept us away from friends and family. Every decade has had its marker. Presidents were shot, wars began, Y2K, 9/11/2001, floods, fires and hurricanes. The beginning of the 2020 decade will most definitely be COVID-19. We are fortunate to be in an industry that proved to be “essential” during this time of shutdown and change. You adapted with the use of technology to serve your clients, you interpreted policy language and guided consumers to solutions as they adjusted their business style. Even though carriers received much negative attention, we should all be impressed with how they stepped up to provide assistance to consumers with premium payment flexibility, rate modifications, and contributions to social causes. People mention they would just like to skip ahead to next year but we don’t have a magic fast forward button and we can only hope and pray it will be better. 2020 is the year we survived COVID-19. Most of us….. You may want to forget, but
you will not.
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2020 OFFICERSPRESIDENT
John MeyenRosholt Insurance Agency
Rosholt, SD
PRESIDENT-ELECTDeana Taylor
Agents of InsuranceRapid City, SD
VICE PRESIDENTMelanie Parsons
Parsons’ Insurance AgencyViborg, SD
SECRETARY-TREASURERJosh Gilkerson
Fischer Rounds & Assoc.Pierre, SD
PAST PRESIDENTDerrick Linn
Leavitt Heartland Ins. ServicesSturgis, SD
IIABA STATE NAT’L DIRECTORDan Maguire
Black Hills AgencyRapid City, SD
2020 DIRECTORSDISTRICT # 1
Josh GilkersonFischer Rounds & Assoc.
Pierre, SD
DISTRICT # 5Elizabeth Nepodal
Fidelity AgencyPlatte, SD
DISTRICT # 2Doug Leighton
Dakotah Gold Ins.Volga, SD
DISTRICT # 6Eric Payne
Insurance PlusAberdeen, SD
DISTRICT # 3Melanie Parsons
Parsons’ Insurance AgencyViborg, SD
DISTRICT # 7Amy Bailey
Starr InsuranceCuster, SD
DISTRICT # 4Ryan Karst
Dakota Financial ServicesSioux Falls, SD
DISTRICT # 8Rich Maguire
Black Hills AgencyRapid City, SD
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENTCarolyn Hofer
IIASDFort Pierre, SD
INDEPENDENT INSURANCE AGENTS OF SOUTH DAKOTA
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E&O EDGE Megan Linn, E&O Program Manager
To Cancel, or Not to Cancel, that is the Question
Best Practices from Swiss Re Corporate Solutions and the IIABA
Just as you are probably receiving a lot of questions from your customers about how their insurance will respond to the events surrounding the Coronavirus/COVID 19, we are also receiving a lot of questions from agents and brokers asking what they should do regarding those questions. How do you respond when someone asks you whether or not there is coverage under their policies? Luckily, the IIABA and Swiss Re Corporate Solutions have already provided information about the policies, coverages, how they might respond, and what you should do when you are presented with those questions. Here is the link to the COVID-19 Resources page: E&O Happens COVID-19 Resources Tab One of the questions we received at first sent us into virtual orbit: "Is there a sample letter for insureds to sign when they insist on cancelling their business coverage against agent’s advice?" With what is going on right now with COVID 19, the immediate thought was "Why on earth would ANYONE want to cancel a business policy right now?" Our next thought was that we were glad the agent was thinking about the E&O implications of doing so. Our third thought was that when the agent sends the letter and acknowledgement for the customer to return confirming that they have been advised that this is a bad idea, the agent needed to fire the client as this would ultimately lead to problems and the agent needed to get away from this customer as fast as they could. So, then we began preparing a sample letter and sample acknowledgement for the agent to send to their customer. While working on the documents, and after calming down a bit, we thought that maybe we needed to ask more questions: "What is the context for the request? Why do they want to cancel the coverage?" Answer: "It is restaurant based, specifically, bars saying they want to cancel because they don’t know if they will be back in business after the shut down." We stopped in our tracks. We realized that these are different times. Businesses are closing indefinitely, or maybe forever, due to these events. Underlying this request is a realization that this customer may not be able to pay for their business insurance going forward. Not just business income coverage, but EVERYTHING. After thinking about this a little longer, we realized that while our advice is still correct, there are things that the agent needs to discuss with their customer BEFORE that request is sent into the carrier to cancel those policies. This is not an exhaustive list, but
definitely things that the agent needs to discuss with the customer BEFORE they make their final decision. • Why do they want to cancel the policy? • Is it because they have heard that carriers are refusing
to cover claims that could arise from COVID‐19 for business interruption?
• Is there a possibility that coverage could be provided in the future due to some government action?
• Are there other ways to reduce premium costs such as increasing the deductible or lowering limits, with cautions about doing so?
• Explain that by cancelling the policy, the insured may be subject to coverage denials for future liability claims depending on the facts of the injury or damage;
• Explain that the insured may be in violation of a contract, lease or other agreement and that it is not the agent’s responsibility to confirm or affirm the insured is in compliance with any signed documents;
• State that by cancelling a gap in coverage periods is created that must be disclosed on all future insurance coverage applications which may or may not have an effect on the ability to secure needed coverage; and
• State that by cancelling the insured may lose any favorable rating or underwriting accommodations and that there is no guarantee the insured will receive such accommodations when coverage is rewritten.
• Cancelling this policy mid-term may not yield premium return due to minimum earned premiums on the policy.
• If they resume operations, emphasize that coverage must be back in place BEFORE they do so, and making that happen may be difficult, much more expensive or impossible if the coverage has been cancelled previously.
• It may not be possible to cancel any policies due to individual state regulatory directives, including due to non‐payment of premiums.
• The agency cannot advise if the customer is eligible for any assistance under any federal or state programs including the CARES Act, but you should consult with your accountant or financial advisor to determine if you may be eligible for monetary assistance."
These are just a few of things that you MUST discuss with your customers before ANY decision is made by them to cancel their current insurance coverages or policies. Then, and only then, and before anything is cancelled, you MUST DOCUMENT, DOCUMENT, DOCUMENT that it is THEIR decision to make the cancellations using the letter and acknowledgement. Sample letters and an acknowledgement are available on E&O Happens under "Claims Prevention">"Sample Customer Letters". Firing the customer could also be a drastic determination. Whether you do that, is up to you. But whatever happens, make sure you are taking appropriate steps to protect yourself.
https://rms.iiaba.net/Resources/Pages/Covid19/covid-19.aspx
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Division of InsuranceNews and Views
Division of InsuranceContact Information:Larry Deiter, DirectorSouth Dakota Division
of Insurance124 S. Euclid Ave. 2nd Floor
Pierre, SD 57501Phone: 605.773.3563
Fax: 605.773.5369
Temporary Resident Producer
Licenses Available During COVID-19 Pandemic End
On Sept. 10, 2020, the South Dakota Division of Insurance issued Bulletin 20-05 to effectively end the option to apply for a temporary resident producer license as of Sept. 11, 2020.
Over 100 temporary license applications have been approved by the South Dakota Division of Insurance since April 20, 2020. Bulletin 20-03 announced the implementation of temporary resident insurance producer licenses due to the extraordinary circumstances created by COVID-19.
With the issuance of Bulletin 20-05, the majority of temporary resident producer licenses issued will automatically expire on Nov. 13, 2020. Some temporary licenses issued early on in the process will expire sooner. The Division will issue a reminder notification of impending temporary producer license expiration to license holders.
Testing centers have reopened across the state allowing persons seeking to hold a resident producer license to take the required examination. Temporary license holders are reminded they should pursue completing the producer examination and filing for a permanent producer license before their temporary license expires. Schedule a producer license examination and access the license application directly from the Division’s website.
Questions can be directed to the Division at [email protected] or by phone at 605.773.3563.
https://dlr.sd.gov/insurance/bulletins/bulletin_20_05_termination_of_temporary_insurance_producer_license_covid19.pdfhttps://dlr.sd.gov/insurance/bulletins/bulletin_20_03_temporary_insurance_producer_license.pdfhttps://dlr.sd.gov/insurance/default.aspxmailto:insurance%40state.sd.us?subject=
Kayla’s Article
Now Is the Time to Make Sure Your Website Is Accessible
BY: RON BERG AND ERIC LIPTON
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When the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) became law in 1990, it was long before the internet became an engrained part of everyday life. While early litigation focused on physical access, such as access to places of public accommodation such as stores and offices), claims today often take issue with online access barriers such as websites that are incompatible with screen-reading software.
In October 2019, the U.S. Supreme Court declined to hear Domino's appeal of a lower court ruling on an ADA website accessibility claim against the pizza company. With the Supreme Court and Congress failing to establish limitations on these types of claims to date, there has been a surge in ADA website accessibility litigation.
That trend is likely to accelerate, especially with the increase in online business due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Given the circumstances, it is more important than ever to make sure your agency's website is sufficiently accessible to persons with disabilities. Although neither Congress nor the Department of Justice have yet established clear rules or regulations on what is required, many jurisdictions have looked to the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.0 or 2.1, published by W3C Web Accessibility Initiative, as the industry standard. Some plaintiffs even use automated tools to search for websites that fail to meet these standards.
Thus, although agents are not under an express obligation and may even be in material compliancewithout meeting every standard, trying to meet WCAG standards is key to avoiding unwanted website accessibility disputes.
“Accessibility does not guarantee that you won’t be sued, but it makes it a lot less likely and it will help defend your case in that you were working to make your agency website accessible,” says Larry Neilson, CEO of Neilson Marketing. Third-party vendors like Neilson Marketing offer services intended to help businesses try to meet WCAG standards.
Ideally, website accessibility should be addressed both in the initial development and ongoing maintenance of a business website.
Some web developers may even offer guarantees or assurances that a newly developed website will conform with current WCAG standards. Changes or updates to a website and its content, of course, could require further consideration. And websites that did not address accessibility at all when developed present additional challenges.
To that end, some vendors offer accessibility overlay toolbars or plugins that can help improve accessibility on existing sites. While there has been some recent criticism of whether certain of these overlays are adequate, they may still prove helpful tools in achieving compliance and avoiding litigation.
It is important to remember that simply adding an accessibility overlay toolbar or working with an outside vendor is not a foolproof defense against legal claims. At the same time, making reasonable efforts should not only help to avoid or defend against any claims—it also makes good business sense.
With approximately 12 million people age 40 or older in the U.S. having vision impairment, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Mr. Neilson often asks businesses a simple question: “Why would you want to exclude such a large customer base before they even know anything about you?"
ADA Compliance ResourcesOver the past several years, the Big “I” Office of the General Counsel and the Agents Council for Technology (ACT) have provided a variety of resources on this topic with links to some key resources below. A webinar is also in development.
The web-based ACT guide “ADA & Accessibility: What You Need to Know” is a crucial starting place and includes a list of potential website accessibility service providers.
Other resources include:
ACT Article by Larry Neilson and Jerry Fox: “Your Website Should be ADA-Compliant”ACT and Big “I” Memo: “FAQ Regarding Website Compliance with the ADA”
WCAG 2.0: “Web Content Accessibility Guidelines”
WCAG “Checklist for Web Content Accessibility”
Use these resources to be proactive—not only to increase the awareness of your agency to a wider array of potential customers, but also to ensure you take steps to prevent potential accessibility disputes.
If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact Ron Berg, Scott Kneeland or Eric Lipton.
https://www.cnbc.com/2019/10/07/dominos-supreme-court.htmlhttps://www.cnbc.com/2019/10/07/dominos-supreme-court.htmlhttps://www.w3.org/WAI/standards-guidelines/wcag/https://www.w3.org/WAI/standards-guidelines/wcag/independentagent.com/ACT/Pages/marketing/Internet/ADA_FAQ.aspxindependentagent.com/ACT/Pages/marketing/Internet/ADA_FAQ.aspxhttps://www.independentagent.com/ACT/Pages/marketing/Internet/your-website-should-be-ada-compliant.aspxhttps://www.independentagent.com/ACT/Pages/marketing/Internet/your-website-should-be-ada-compliant.aspxhttps://www.independentagent.com/legal-advocacy/Members-Only/Memoranda/faq-website-ADA.aspxhttps://www.independentagent.com/legal-advocacy/Members-Only/Memoranda/faq-website-ADA.aspxhttps://www.w3.org/WAI/standards-guidelines/wcag/https://www.w3.org/TR/2006/WD-WCAG20-20060427/appendixB.htmlmailto:Ron.Berg%40iiaba.net?subject=mailto:Scott.Kneeland%40iiaba.net?subject=mailto:eric.lipton%40iiaba.net?subject=
www.emcins.com©Copyright Employers Mutual Casualty Company 2020. All rights reserved.
When it comes to supporting independent insurance agents, we believe that growth starts close to home. That’s why EMC has offices and representatives across the country — giving you
personalized service from a trusted partner who knows the local market. And because we tailor our insurance solutions and loss control services to meet the unique needs of your customers,
you can always count on bringing the best products to the table.
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Apply online today!www.fmiAgent.com
LOOKING FOR ALONG-TERM CAREER?
Financial Markets, Inc. is an insurance brokerage with locations in Rapid City and Spear�sh, South Dakota that markets and distributes life insurance annuities and long-term care products to insurance and �nancial professionals in 49 states.
Financial Markets, Inc. is a growing company with the ambition to expand our exemplary team.
Paid Training • Paid Vacation • Education Assistance • Continued EducationHours: Mon-Fri, 7:30 am to 4:00 pm • Competitive Salary + Commission
Health, Vision, & Dental Insurance • 401(k) with Employer Match
• Internal Wholesaler• Contracting Associate• New Business Associate
Financial Markets, Inc. is now seekingcandidates to join our great team!
Trusted Choice Student Scholarships In our commitment to give back to our membership in a meaningful way and promote the Independent Insurance Agents’ Trusted Choice brand, IIASD will again be awarding five (5) scholarships for $500 each to student child of an IIASD member agent. Qualifications:
• Member applying is a parent or guardian in good standing with IIASD • Recipient is a student who is currently enrolled in a higher education program at
a college, university or trade school Due to Convention cancellation, drawing will be held on October 5th at the IIASD Office. Complete the nomination form (here). For more information, call the IIASD office at 605-224-6234 or email [email protected]. Click here to access form.
[email protected]://www.iiasd.org/Events/SiteAssets/Pages/Convention/default/2020TrustedChoiceScholarshipForm.pdfhttps://www.iiasd.org/Events/SiteAssets/Pages/Convention/default/2020TrustedChoiceScholarshipForm.pdf
auto
home
farm
Farmers Mutual’s coverages are supported by prompt, personalized service and unmatched financial strength. As the leading insurer of farms in Nebraska and South Dakota, our history of success is a reflection of the trust and loyalty we’ve earned from our policyholders and local agents.
Our promise is to be “Always alongside you.”
Contact:Andy Kraus, CPCUVice President of [email protected] | 800.742.7433
fmne.com
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MISSOURI VALLEY
MUTUAL INSURANCEBurke, South Dakota
With
All
of
the
Pieces
Fit!
FARMOWNER/
RANCHOWNER
FIRE AND
ALLIED LINES
PERSONAL AND
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UMBRELLA
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HOMEOWNER/
MOBILEHOME
PERSONAL AND
GENERAL LIABILITY
CONTACT BRADY PECK 1-605-775-2636
OPENSEMCI
Single-entry, multiple-company interface (SEMCI) is like magic! Acuity, long recognized as a leader in agency interface technology, is committed to supporting SEMCI in commercial lines. SEMCI drives
efficiency in the quote and application process and allows you to choose how you
want to do business with Acuity.
Acuity currently partners with several of the leading commercial lines insurtechs. We are building, exploring partnerships, or expanding with numerous other independent agency technology solutions. And Acuity is on the forefront of integration technology, continually building the connections necessary to be ready to connect to new insurtechs as they emerge.
IIASD Crop Conference
Postponed Due to low registration numbers and our concern for the safety of our members and AIP Partners during this time of COVID-19, we will be combining the Crop Conference Agenda with our Farm & Small Town Conference at the Highland Conference Center in Mitchell, SD, on March 31st and April 1st. More information will be available after we determine the format of this event. Refunds were processed. This is a great agenda and we are hopeful solutions for COVID will allow us to offer this in the Spring.
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OPENSEMCI
Single-entry, multiple-company interface (SEMCI) is like magic! Acuity, long recognized as a leader in agency interface technology, is committed to supporting SEMCI in commercial lines. SEMCI drives
efficiency in the quote and application process and allows you to choose how you
want to do business with Acuity.
Acuity currently partners with several of the leading commercial lines insurtechs. We are building, exploring partnerships, or expanding with numerous other independent agency technology solutions. And Acuity is on the forefront of integration technology, continually building the connections necessary to be ready to connect to new insurtechs as they emerge.
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Western National Full Page Ad.pdf 1 7/31/2018 12:59:07 PM
sfmic.com
Agents receive 20 percent commission
on new accounts up to $25,000 in premium during 2020
n Our team is ready to deliver long-term positive results for you and your customers
n Manage policies online using SFM Agency Manager (SAM)
Contact your SFM underwriter for more details.20 percent commission applies to new SFM Mutual policies with
effective dates between January 1 and December 31, 2020. Does not include policies written with the SFM Safe or SFM Select rate sets.
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1st Dakota Insurance offers competitively priced Insurance Exam Prep books, online practice questions and live classroom exam
prep classes for IIASD members.
**Licensing Materials are available for Property/Casualty and Life/Health Exam
Preparation**
Exam Prep One on One Teaching Also Available by Appointment
Use Promo Code 1594626 to receive your 15% member discount on the www.1stdakins.com website colinsgrp.com
INSURANCE AGENT-FULL TIME
Heartland Financial Service, Inc-Highmore is taking applications for full-time licensed
insurance agent. This candidate should possess a talent for working with people, have excellent
customer service skills, maintain and grow existing book of business, seeking out new leads
and new clients, enjoys sales, be energetic and has an established history of sales success.
Competitive compensation package based onqualifications, retirement plan, health, vision,
dental, life insurance paid PTO.
Resume may be sent to Heartland Financial Service, Attn: Barb Lenocker, PO Box 40, Redfield,
SD 57469.
Equal Employment Opportunity
http://www.1stdakins.com
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www.nwgf.com INSURANCE FOR: Homeowners Farmowners Modular Homeowners Personal Auto Farm Property Dwelling Property Mobile Homes Excess Liability Farm and Personal Liability Classic Vehicle Semi-Truck
Insuring Those Who Protect Us. www.FirePAK.com
YOU HAVE THE
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For a quote, ask your agent to contact one of the State Directors below depending upon your location.
WEST of the river EAST of the river Dan Maguire and Levi OlivierBlack Hills Insurance [email protected]
Daschle Larsen and Taylor Jacobsen
McKinneyOlson [email protected]
605.335.7777
Products and services are provided by one or more insurance company subsidiaries of W. R. Berkley Corporation. Not all products and services are available in every jurisdiction and the precise coverage afforded by any insurer is subject to the actual terms and conditions of the policies as issued. Continental Western Group is not liable for any loss resulting from use of information in this advertisement.. | Copyright © 2018 Continental Western Group®. All rights reserved. | 2005CWG-FDK-06-18
3 year rate guarantee – No loss ratio condition
Portable Equipment-Guaranteed
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Broad Definition of Commandeered
On line Training with CEC availability
LODD
Department member auto deductible reimbursement
Department member homeowner deductible
reimbursement
Department member additional living
expense reimbursement
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Why American West Insurance?• Local company with over 60
years agriculture insurance
experience
• Quality products
• Competitive pricing
• Expert claims and
underwriting services
Be Protected. Be Sure®. yourawi.com
To learn more about AWI contact Kelly Sunde at [email protected] or call 605-880-5563.
Agribusiness • Farm & Ranch • Farm & Ranch Auto • Personal Auto Excess Liability • Watercraft • Crop Hail • Multi-Peril
For all your insurance needs.We support Independent Agents who serve the South Dakota farm and ranch community. Our national footprint helps us weather the challenges across the U.S. and provide unique solutions for farms and ranches of all sizes.
Partner with the Nation’s #1 Farm Insurer today.
Products underwritten by Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company and Affiliated Companies. Home Office: Columbus, OH 43215. Subject to underwriting guidelines, review, and approval. Availability varies. Nationwide, Nationwide Is On Your Side, and the Nationwide N and Eagle are service marks of Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company. ©2019 Nationwide GCO-0531AO 11/19
Brian GreicarSales Manager, [email protected]
701-298-9277
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Dacotah Bank is looking for an individual to establish customer relationships and build trust with an outgoing personality. There are two Insurance Agent positions open: one will work between our Sisseton, SD and Morris, MN locations; and other is “Open to Sioux Falls, Rapid, or Mobridge locations.”The individual must also be driven to succeed with the ability to close deals.
We are an established, growth-oriented insurance agency with a team of highly motivated individuals and are looking for our next great insurance agent! An Insurance Agent has an energetic professional interest in helpingour business grow through value-based conversations and remarkable customer experience.
• Develop leads, schedule appointments, identify customer needs, and market appropriate products and services.• Establish customer relationships and build trust• Maintain a strong work ethic, positive attitude and total commitment to success each and every day.• Work to establish and meet marketing goals.• Use a customer-focused, needs-based review process to educate customers about insurance options.
Apply online at: dacotahbank.com/careers. Dacotah Bank is an Equal Opportunity Employer of women, minorities, protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.
http://dacotahbank.com/careers
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Great Year to Buy a Raffle Ticket and Donate to InsurPac
Less Raffle Tickets purchased without events = better chance to WIN!!
InsurPac raises and distributes approximately $2.3 million each election cycle, making it one of the largest small business PACs in the country, funded by voluntary, personal, LLC and Partnership contributions from independent agents and brokers…..funded by members like YOU. The Big I Governmental Affairs team uses these funds to advocate for the independent agency system.
The Big “I” has been heavily engaged with our nation’s leaders, insurance markets and the broader business community on national solutions to the pandemic and its broad-based health and economic effects. They are on “The Hill” taking a stand for YOU.
Click here to One raffle ticket for each $20 donated to InsurPac Donate Today Double Up -Support Your Industry & Win Or Text IIASD at $$$ CASH $$$ 797979
https://app7.vocusgr.com/webpublish/controller.aspx?SiteName=IIABA&Definition=PACTransactionEdit&SV_Section=CCPage
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Customer Service Representative/Insurance Agent
DESCRIPTION/RESPONSIBILITIES:As a Customer Service Representative/Agent, you will work for a fast-paced independent agency, representing many companies. Employer prefers a licensed agent but will consider training a committed applicant willing to become licensed.
EXPECTATIONS:*Issuing new insurance policies, processing modifications to existing policies, submitting claims, processing customer payments, and providing requested information to third parties.*Monitoring the general agency email account.*Effectively communicating with clients and documenting client and policy actions in the agency management system.*Serving as the first point of contact for the agency (answering the phone and greeting walk-ins).
BENEFITS (after probation period):*Health Insurance*Life Insurance*Paid Time Off
First Madison Insurance is an equal opportunity employer-minorities/females/veterans/individuals with disabilities/sexual orientation/gender identity.
Please mail resume to:First Madison InsuranceAttn: Greg FenderPO Box 367Madison SD 57042
Big "I" Fall Leadership
Virtual Conference October 19 -22, 2020
Choose from valuable sessions each day on:
• Diversity, Marketing, Tech, Perpetuation**, Security, Remote Work & more
**Jesse Konold, Key Agency, Mobridge will be a part of this presentation
This event is for ALL members.
IIASD wants to **WIN** the Registration Challenge
We are offering a chance to WIN prizes for those who register!
Prizes include: (exclusive to SD) • Two $250 Amazon Cards • $100 in InsurPac raffle
tickets to win $$$$$ **All members are eligible to register
Be a winner! Register here Schedule of sessions
https://www.independentagent.com/Events/FallLeadership/home.aspxhttps://www.independentagent.com/Events/FallLeadership/schedule/schedule.aspx
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Career Opportunities for
Insurance Agent Insurance Customer Service Agent
Dacotah Insurance is seeking Insurance Agents and Insurance Customer Service Agents. We offer an excellent benefits package and competitive salary within an outstanding work environment. Insurance Agent: This position pursues and closes sales with clients’ personal, commercial, and farm insurance. The successful individual will currently hold licenses in property casualty and life and health. This individual will be a self-starter with superb customer service and communication skills. Locations: SD/Morris, MN; Sioux Falls, SD Insurance Customer Service Agent: This position will provide excellent customer service while assisting clients with their personal, commercial, and farm insurance. The successful individual will currently hold licenses in property and casualty or willing to obtain within 90 days. This individual will be a team player with superb organization and communication skills. Locations: Sisseton, SD; Morris, MN
Apply online: www.dacotahbank.com/careers
Equal Opportunity Employer of women, minorities, protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.
IIASD’s 90th Convention Moved to 2021
Due to increased cases of COVID-19 in South Dakota and concern for the health and safety of our members, partners, staff and exhibitors, the IIASD Board of Directors has voted to move the 90th Convention celebration to Oct. 10th – 12th, 2021. • Golf refunds have been processed and
all motel rooms have been released. • Awards will be presented at Farm &
Small Town Conference in the Spring • District 1, 3 & 6 elections will be handled
via email by current district director. • Annual Meeting will take place virtually
on October 5th at 10:00 am. If you wish to attend, email [email protected] and request an invite to attend.
We look forward to seeing you at events in 2021 and want to thank all members and partners for the work you have done this year to provide service and support to clients and communities. We will get through this together!
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www.claimsassoc.com
(605) 333-9810
Jeff Jares, AIC AIM, President Christopher W. Madsen, J.D., General Counsel
Dan Eggers, Finance/HR/IT
Adjusters
Nancy Almendinger Jennifer Andrisen Selzler Cory Beck Bill Blackman Blake Dykstra Kay Greve Nick Hemme Joe Jares Dave Johnston Collin Karsky Amy Kvernmo Chad Moore Wendi Peterson Kimberly Rausch Dave Sendelbach Mike Weckman Tim Wieker Craig Matson John Keffeler Bruce Eleeson
Case Managers
Kelly Rud RN BA LNCC Jennifer Heinricy RN CCM Deb Whipple RN BA CCM Lori Schaefbauer RN BSN CCM
We commit ourselves to providing the highest quality claims and case management services available in our
industry. Please visit our website for complete information.
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We can help.
24/7 FIRE & WATER restoration services
Sioux FallS605-334-9716
yankton605-689-2220
INTEKClEaNINg & REsToRaTIoN
www.intekclean.com
EXCLUSIVELY OFFERED IN SOUTH DAKOTA BY:Fischer Rounds & Associates, Inc. | Trevor Lightfield
[email protected] | tel: 605.224.9223 | cell: 605.222.5223
A Member of OneBeacon Insurance GroupThese policies may be underwritten by Atlantic Specialty Insurance Company or OBI National Insurance Company.
Insurance Solutions for Fire & Emergency Responders
We’re here to help you move your agency forward.
What You Have to do to be Super-Successful in SalesBy: John Chapin
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Being average in sales is not difficult. The truth is, 80 to 95% of the salespeople in any organization are somewhere between average and bad. If you want to be great and make the big money, while having the biggest positive impact on clients’ lives, and your own, here’s what you need to do.
1. Have a morning routine that prepares you for your day.2. Have an evening routine that helps you wind down and get a good night’s sleep.3. You have to see yourself as self-employed.4. You’ve got to push yourself harder than anyone else can possibly push you.5. You have to follow up with people 9 to 13 times, or more.6. You have to practice, role-play, and rehearse sales situations.7. You have to go above and beyond and do more than people expect and more than you get paid for.8. You have to smile no matter what happens on the sales call.9. You have to keep your cool, keep your emotions in check.10. You have to know your numbers and make sure they get done on a daily basis.11. You have to know why you’re out there to begin with.12. You have to get up early and stay up late.13. You have to answer your phone and e-mail on nights and weekends. 14. You have to work nights and weekends, at least for the first five years of your career. 15. You also have to work nights and weekends when you want or need to significantly increase sales at any time in your career.16. You have to make the call your afraid to make.17. You have to outwork everyone else.18. You have to keep learning, adapting, and improving your sales techniques.19. You have to keep current in your industry.20. You have to know more about the competition than they know about themselves.21. You have to follow a proven sales process. 22. You have to let rejection roll off your back. 23. You have to be able to delay gratification and work really hard before you see any results.24. You have to remove the word ‘CAN’T’ from your vocabulary.25. You have to monitor your self-talk and keep it positive.26. You have to believe in yourself when no one else does, including you. 27. You have to believe in and be passionate about your product or service and the results it provides. 28. You have to bend over backwards and do whatever you can do to make the client happy and right.29. You must take responsibility for and invest in your personal and professional development. 30. You have to realize that you will get rewarded in public for what you do in private.31. You have to always act with integrity and character.32. You have to get back up when you can’t.33. You have to face your fears and step out of your comfort zone every day. 34. You have to be completely accountable for doing what you said you would do when you said you would do it.35. You have to be completely accountable when you fail.36. You have to be generous with the credit when you win.37. You have to over appreciate people.38. You have to keep the faith in your darkest hour.39. You have to be completely unreasonable in what you expect of yourself.
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40. You have to do one more of everything… one more call, one more rep, read one more page. Get in the habit of doing more.41. You have to reach more people. 42. You have to be willing to be rejected A LOT, fail A LOT, and you have to be willing to make mistakes and learn from them.43. You have to rise and charge into your day when you’d rather hit the snooze button. 44. You have to deliver more, better, and faster. 45. You have to pay attention to the details.46. You have to work hard, have a great attitude, communicate well with others, and get along well with others. 47. You have to care about your clients more than anything else.48. You have to be a pleasure to do business with and to be around. 49. You have to do the right thing.
If you want to be great, you have to do the things that no one else is doing. You have to put more time, effort, energy, passion, and pride into what you’re doing. You must persist and persevere and keep moving forward no matter what happens.
Average is easy, being the GOAT, or one of them, takes blood, sweat, and tears. It isn’t sunshine and rainbows, it’s hard, painful work, and sacrifice is involved. You get out what you put in.
99.9% of the time the great ones aren’t the most intelligent, or the most talented, they are the hardest workers that refuse to give up. Extraordinary people are ordinary people who are simply more determined to win than everyone else. And when everyone else stops, they keep going.
You were not born to live an ordinary life. You were born to be extraordinary.
WHERE A HANDSHAKE IS STILL GOLDENBuilding on the foundation of Midwestern values, where a handshake is stillgolden, we take great pride in being a local business and are proud to be the No. 1 writer of work comp in South Dakota.
www.RASCompanies.com800.732.1486Risk Management | Injury Prevention | Cost Containment | Claims Management
IIA Newsletter 2017_Layout 1 2/16/2017 3:47 PM Page 1
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Beyond the ExpectedOur experts take the time to understand each clients’ needs and craft a tailored solution.
Person-to-Person ServiceThink of your underwriter as part of your team! From bind to renewal they are here for you.
Accessible LeadershipOur hands-on managers and senior leaders are highly involved with customers at every stage.
We’re Different. It Matters.
Commercial Auto | Cyber Liability | Employment Practices Liability | Excess LiabilityGeneral Liability | Property | Small Commercial Package | Workers’ Compensation
Coverage provided by:Continental Western Insurance Company
Union Insurance Company | Acadia Insurance Company Firemen’s Insurance Company of Washington, D.C.
Tri-State Insurance Company of Minnesota
Nationally recognized as a leader in worker’s compensation, CWG’s Workers’ Recovery Unit provides a personal approach to claim handling and is commited to the best care and outcomes for our insureds and their workers.
cwgins.com
We know that our actions speak louder than words. Trust that Continental Western Group will deliver on our promises.
Products and services are provided by one or more insurance company subsidiaries of W.R. Berkley Corporation. Not all products and services are available in every jurisdiction, and the precise coverage afforded by any insurer is subject to the actual terms and conditions of the policies issued. This publication and the information herein is confidential and proprietary to Continental Western Group®. Information in this publication is subject to change at any time. This publication provides general information only, is not legal advice, and is not a statement of contract. Any statement regarding insurance coverage made herein is subject to all provisions and exclusions of the entire insurance policy. Copyright ©2020 Continental Western Group®. All rights reserved. | 2139_CWG_AD_102019
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Continental Western Group® Your leader in commercial insurance, safety and experience.
CWG is Strong, Local & Trusted.
www.cwgins.com
Our customers
include:
•
• Small Business
Owners
• Manufacturers
• Agribusinesses
• Bulk Petroleum
Companies
• Contractors
Who has beeninsuring businesses for over
Products and services are provided by one or more insurance company subsidiaries of W. R. Berkley Corporation. Not all products and services are available in every jurisdiction and the precise coverage afforded by any insurer is subject to the actual terms and conditions of the policies as issued. Continental Western Group is not liable for any loss resulting from use of information in this advertisement. | Copyright © 2018 Continental Western Group®. All rights reserved. | 1688CWG-AD-06-18
The companies of
1688CWG-AD-06-18.indd 1 06/25/18 12:57 PM
Food Processing
WE DIDN’T KEY THE CAR. BUT WE’RE THE KEY TO FIXING IT. AUTO INSURANCE THAT’S DESIGNED TO BE WORRY FREE
Wheels are the way around life. Protect vehicles with auto insurance from the Worry Free Company — IMT Insurance.
Learn how you can represent IMT Insurance at imtins.com/contact and help your policyholders Be Worry Free with IMT.
AUTO | HOME | BUSINESS
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Visit ufgSolutions.com or call 605-763-8077.
At UFG, we have a national
footprint, but operate with the
service-oriented personality
of a hands-on regional carrier.
Our people know your region,
and are empowered to make
decisions specific to your area.
We know your space.
It’s that simple.
Not a complex point of view.
A CAREER You Can Count On…….Security First Bank believes that attention to detail, flexible and innovative services and remarkable customer care are the pillars of successful community banking, and
we’ve been committed to those standards since our founding in 1898.
We look for people who will embrace our values:Service Quality * Teamwork * Integrity * Adaptability * Accountability
As a Security First employee, you’ll be challenged to be better every day, while encouraged, supported, and valued, with your career growth as a consistent priority
and focus.
APPLY ONLINE: WWW.SECURITY1 STBANK.COM/CAREERS
Security First Bank
SECURITY FIRST BANK IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER OF WOMEN, MINORITIES, PROTECTED VETERANS, AND INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES.
INSURANCE AGENT
Seeking a Dynamic individual that will sell and assist customers will all their personal, commercial, and farm insurance needs.
This individual will be a team player, with strong marketing, organization and communication skills.
Must currently hold a license in property and casualty insurance or willing to obtain one within 90 days.
Location(s): Rapid City, SD
Agency Website Privacy Policy
Did you know you need to have a Privacy Policy listed on your agency website? Click HERE for a free template you can download and use for your agency.
Note: You must have a Big 'I' ID & password to access this.
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https://www.independentagent.com/legal-advocacy/SiteAssets/Members-Only/Memoranda/default/ACT%20Privacy%20Policy%20Memo%20and%20Sample%20Notice%20-%20FINAL.pdf
September 15th – October 31st, 2020
Eligible Counties for 2020:
District 1: Campbell, Corson, Dewey, Edmunds, Faulk, Hand, Hughes, Hyde, McPherson, Potter, Stanley, Sully, Walworth District 6: Brown, Day, Grant, Marshall, Roberts, Spink Fire Department Name:____________________________________________________________________ Address:_____________________________________________Phone:_______________________________ Fire Department Contact Person: _____________________________________________________________ Fire Department Information: __________ Total Number of Volunteer Members __________ Total Square Miles of area served __________ Number of Fire Calls in the last 12 months Requested Equipment:______________________________________________________________________ __________ Number of Current Sets of requested items at the Department __________ Replacing old gear? Y or N __________ Age of old equipment/gear being replaced Additional Information providing details of your Fire Department’s grant request must be included on a separate page for the nomination to be considered. Nominating Agency:_____________________________________________________________________
Address:_____________________________________________Phone:____________________________
Member Agent:_______________________________Email:_____________________________________ *Form must be submitted through a Trusted Choice Independent Insurance Agency.
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The following members of the Insurance Professionals of Greater Sioux Falls were named at the 2020 International Association of Insurance Professionals Region V Conference:
Chris DeSchepper, Client Advisor of Marsh & McLennan Agency of Sioux Falls, was named Insurance Professional of the Year. The award recognizes excellence among those who have been employed in the insurance industry a minimum of ten years. Among the criteria considered in conferring the award are the candidate’s participation in association activities, involvement in the insurance industry, education programs, industry experience, current career position and activities undertaken in the community.
Kathy Moore-Stark, Underwriter and Marketing Specialist at Berkley Classics Insurance, was named Professional Underwriter of the Year. This award recognizes an underwriter who has demonstrated superior knowledge of the UW field, experienced professional advancement through educational pursuits, demonstrated leadership and is an active participant in IAIP activities.
Krista Ahrendt, Commercial Underwriter of Continental Western Group of Luverne was named Young New Professional of the Year. This award recognizes a new member who has made significant contributions to IAIP after the first 24-months of joining the association. It recognizes participation in association affairs, completion of selected insurance courses and involvement in governmental activities.
Antje Peters, Client Coordinator of Marsh & McLennan Agency of Sioux Falls, received the MAP Award. This award provides funds to attend the International Conference to a first time attendee based on association participation in leadership and education.
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By invitation or recommendation from Financial Markets Inc only. Minimum of 12 paid policies for individual qualifiers and for the collective IIASD qualification. Agent must have at least an 80% placement ratio individually and for points to be included in the collective IIASD qualification, the individual contributing producer must have at least an 80% placement ratio. The qualification period runs January 16, 2020 through January 15, 2021. Points vary by carrier and product. See complete points schedule, trip details and promotion information at tinyurl.com/2020fmiAgentAwards. Only IIASD agents who place business with Financial Markets Inc from January 16, 2020 through January 15, 2021 will be included in the IIASD collective qualification drawing. If an IIASD producer qualifies for the fmiAgent Point Awards on their own merit, their points will count towards the collective minimum for IIASD qualification, but that qualifying agent will not be included in the drawing as an agent may only qualify one time. This promotion is not sponsored by the Independent Insurance Agents and Brokers of America, Inc. nor the Independent Insurance Agents of South Dakota. For financial professional use only. Not to be shown to consumers.
Hotel Riu Palace Costa RicaThe stunning Hotel Riu Palace, located on Matapalo Beach, offers a variety of amenities and activities. This all-inclusive resort pampers guests with room service, multiple restaurants, bars and even an ice cream parlor. All meals, snacks and beverages are included. Guests have access to 4 swimming pools, tennis courts, a gym with sauna and excusite whirlpool. Beach activities include fishing, kayaking, swimming, windsurfing, snorkeling and beach volleyball. There is a casino and daily as well as nightly entertainment.
For full details, visit tinyurl.com/2020fmiAgentAwards
Earn Points with your Paid Policies Points Required
Producer’s Club30,000
VIP Producer60,000
President’s Club90,000
Airfare -- $1000 Airfare Voucher $1500 Airfare Voucher
Length of Stay 5 Nights 5 Nights 5 Nights
Accommodations Standard Jr. Suite Jacuzzi Suite
IIASD Special Incentive: In additional to the normal qualification guidelines for the 2020 fmiAgent Point Awards Costa Rica Get-Away, Financial Markets Inc will be hosting one additional IIASD agent (and guest) for no cost! If collective production from IIASD Member agents, with Financial Markets Inc, results in a minimum of 60,000 points for the 2020 fmiAgent Point Awards, Financial Markets Inc will hold a live drawing solely for IIASD with one IIASD agent (and guest) receiving accommodations at the Producer’s Club Level on the 2021 fmiAgent 5-Night, All-Inclusive Get-Away to Guanacaste, Costa Rica.
Financial Markets Inc is hosting one IIASD member agent and guest at the 2021
fmiAgent National Producer Convention in Costa Rica at No Cost!
Together you will achieve it!This is a great opportunity for all IIASD agencies to expand presence in the Annuity, Disability Income, Life Insurance and Long-Term Care markets. Financial Markets Inc, a South Dakota-based National Independent Brokerage, provides agents and agencies access to the most cutting edge and competitive Annuity and Non-P&C Insurance products available in the marketplace today. We have no minimum production requirements and our Internal Wholesalers are eager to help your success in providing clients the product lines we offer. Contact an Internal Wholesaler at Financial Markets Inc to learn how to contract with our firm.
Special Promotion! Contact one of our internal wholesalers today...Costa Rica is beckoning!
of the needed points! as of 09/01/2020
71%IIASD currently has
60,000
5-Night, All-Inclusive Get-Away to Guanacaste, Costa Rica
Sunday, May 2, 2021 - Friday, May 7, 2021
DIAMONDIIASD Service Corp
Risk Administration ServicesPLATINUM
AcuityDoss & Associates
Farmers Mutual of NebraskaFinancial Markets Inc.Graber & Associates
Great Plains BrokerageLiberty Mutual/SafeCo
Nationwide Mutual Insurance Co.North Star Mutual Insurance Co.
United Fire GroupGOLD
Auto-Owners InsuranceCGB Diversified Services, Inc.
Continental Western Group Dakota Claims Service
EMC Insurance Co.Farmers Mutual Hail of IowaGreat American Insurance Co.
Infotech Solutions, LLCIntek Cleaning and Restoration
IMT InsuranceLiberty Mutual InsuranceMidwest Family Mutual
NAU CountryOneBeacon Insurance Group
Pro AgRain & Hail, LLC
Rural Community Insurance ServicesSFM Mutual Insurance Co.Western National Insurance
SILVERAccident Fund Ins Co. of America
American West InsuranceArmTech Insurance Services
Berkshire Hathaway Guard InsuranceCapital Premium Financing, Inc.
Concorde Generaal AgencyFarmers Alliance Mutual
Missouri Valley Mutual Insurance Co.North American Software Associates
Northwest GF Mutual InsuranceProgressive Insurance Co.Risk Placement Services
Swiss ReState Auto Insurance Co.
Wellmark Blue Cross & Blue ShieldBRONZE
Bjornson/Sentinel E & L
tinyurl.com/2020fmiAgentAwards
POWER IN PARTNERS September 2020
DIAMONDIIASD Service Corp
Risk Administration ServicesPLATINUM
AcuityDoss & Associates
Farmers Mutual of NebraskaFinancial Markets Inc.Graber & Associates
Great Plains BrokerageLiberty Mutual/SafeCo
Nationwide Mutual Insurance Co.North Star Mutual Insurance Co.
United Fire GroupGOLD
Auto-Owners InsuranceCGB Diversified Services, Inc.
Continental Western Group Dakota Claims Service
EMC Insurance Co.Farmers Mutual Hail of IowaGreat American Insurance Co.
Infotech Solutions, LLCIntek Cleaning and Restoration
IMT InsuranceLiberty Mutual InsuranceMidwest Family Mutual
NAU CountryOneBeacon Insurance Group
Pro AgRain & Hail, LLC
Rural Community Insurance ServicesSFM Mutual Insurance Co.Western National Insurance
SILVERAccident Fund Ins Co. of America
American West InsuranceArmTech Insurance Services
Berkshire Hathaway Guard InsuranceCapital Premium Financing, Inc.
Concorde Generaal AgencyFarmers Alliance Mutual
Missouri Valley Mutual Insurance Co.North American Software Associates
Northwest GF Mutual InsuranceProgressive Insurance Co.Risk Placement Services
Swiss ReState Auto Insurance Co.
Wellmark Blue Cross & Blue ShieldBRONZE
Bjornson/Sentinel E & L
