I’ll be the first to admit it… when I started out, I didn’t get it.
I didn’t understand why insurance agents would spend their time (and money!) traveling to hang out with their competitors and carrier reps at conferences. It felt unnecessary… until one marketing rep took a chance on me.
She got approval to use her marketing budget to sponsor me for the FAIA Convention. At the time, I was treading water running a scratch agency with practically zero resources for things like conferences. Attending just once made me immediately get the value. Ever since then, this event has been on my “don’t miss” list every year.
Last week was this year’s FAIA Convention, and let me tell you, it delivered! Here are a few reasons why I believe joining professional industry associations and showing up at events like these are one of the best things you can do for your business, your career, and your sanity:
1.
Face Time That Matters
I met with nearly all of our top carrier partners in the same place, over just a few days. That kind of efficiency is impossible to replicate with office visits, Zoom calls, and scattered emails. You get to talk strategy, solve problems, and build relationships in a much deeper way when you’re face-to-face.
2.
Industry Updates You Actually Want to Hear
Insurance — especially in Florida — is finally coming back to life after a once-in-a-generation hard market! Everyone is buzzing with growth plans again. At FAIA, we got jam-packed updates on legislation, market trends, product development, and what’s next. It had me returning to the office energized!
3.
Education, with a Surprise Twist
Sure, I attended sessions on topics I already cared about. But I also stumbled into a few that weren’t on my radar, and walked away with takeaways I wouldn’t have sought out on my own. That’s the magic of putting yourself in the room.
4.
Fun, Connection, and 90s Nostalgia
Yes, the hospitality events and lobby bar chats are half the reason people go, but spoiler alert, they’re worth it! It’s where the real connections happen. And let’s just say, when Sister Hazel hit the stage at the closing party, every 90s kid turned insurance pro was on the dance floor singing along.
5.
Better Together
Where I once saw industry events as full of competition, I now see collaboration. Now I know they’re about catching up with friends I only see once or twice a year, sharing ideas, celebrating each other’s wins, and elevating the entire industry together.
6.
The Power of Advocacy
Being part of an association means having a collective voice. When we show up, we strengthen our industry’s ability to advocate for meaningful change (Can I get 3 cheers for tort reform?!), and FAIA has been at the forefront of those efforts. If you care about shaping the future of your industry, this is where it starts.
If you’ve ever questioned whether it’s “worth it” to join an industry association or attend that annual event… let me be the one to say: It is. You’ll get so much more than CE credits. You’ll get community, clarity, and a competitive edge.
… And if you’re lucky, some invaluable friendships with your peers.
