"I Am Woman — The Power is Within Me" — charity calendar for the year 2025. Join to our project!
Interview with Rhonda Wessels — Independent Sales Representative.
How did your journey in the insurance industry begin, and what led you to collaborate with Combined Insurance?
When I began in the insurance industry, I did not have any previous
knowledge of insurance. I have learned a great deal about the importance of insurance, and the multiple roles it plays. I worked at another insurance company before I decided on Combined Insurance.
I felt that Combined was a better fit because it is a leading provider of individual and supplemental health, accident, disability and life insurance in the US.
What challenges did you face at the start of your career as an independent sales representative, and how did you overcome them?
Insurance is complex, all about problem solving, helps build relationships and full of different perspectives. Now after being in the insurance industry for over 4 years, I am so thankful for the time and energy that has poured into my development.
What sets Combined Insurance apart from other insurance companies? What benefits do you see in working with this company?
Combined is a well-established carrier with nearly a century of experience in the insurance industry. Combined remains a solid choice with competitive pricing. They work with employers of all sizes as well as individuals.
Which insurance products are most popular among customers in California?
I find that our accident plan and life insurance are among the most popular products. With my last enrollment, there was a lot of popularity with the accident and critical illness.
What is your strategy for building trust and long-term relationships with clients?
My strategies for building trust and long-term relationships include clear and frequent communication, showcasing expertise, and delivering quality work consistently. Being transparent, respectful, and honest are essential.
Can you share an example of a situation where you helped a client in a difficult situation by offering a well-matched insurance solution?
I had a client, who happens to be a friend of mine, and she came to me to try to get life insurance on her husband. He had a lot of medical issues, but I was able to obtain a policy for him. She provided me with her budget and was quite pleased with the outcome.
What changes have you observed in the insurance market in recent years, and how do they affect customer needs?
The voluntary benefits industry is requiring employers to offer more personalized benefits packages that appeal to a diverse work- force and increase participation. I work with all types of businesses to help educate their employees about how important these benefits are and to take advantage of them when they are offered through their employer.
I also try to help the 1099 sector that do not have access to these benefits. We offer benefits to these individuals as well.
What motivates you in your daily work, and how do you handle challenging moments in sales?
What motivates me is reflecting on past experiences, the types of challenges that drive me to do my best, and setting goals and maintaining a positive mindset.
What are your plans for the future? Do you see opportunities for career growth within Combined Insurance or in other areas of the insurance industry?
My plans for the future are to identify what I want to accomplish, identify any skills and knowledge that I need to acquire, monitor my progress, and development a career action plan. I have already expressed an interest to move up the ladder at Combined by applying for an Agency Coordinator in which I would recruit and train other Independent Agents.
I have already recruited and trained one individual. I am working toward recruiting more and to build my business pipeline.
