Top specialist broker on fostering mutual loyalty with agents

Why personal – and not simply price-driven – relationships are vital

Top specialist broker on fostering mutual loyalty with agents

Insurance News

By Ryan Smith

Joya Sobolewski’s ability to create personal relationships with her agents has served her well during her nearly 20 years in the trucking insurance industry – and led to her being recognized on IBA’s Top Specialist Brokers list for 2022.

“I’ve worked with a variety of markets writing auto liability, physical damage, cargo, umbrella, trucker’s general liability, contingent, occupational accident, and even some workers’ compensation,” said Sobolewski, a transportation underwriter at Risk Placement Services. “I’ve lived in the Chicago area all my life, which has helped to create relationships with trucking agents in this heavy-traffic area. I’m looking forward to another 20 years in this fast-paced, ever-changing industry.”

Sobolewski said those personal – and not simply price-driven – relationships were vital, as they made agents feel loyal to her and her market. She told IBA that agents need to know that she cares about their work – and will also work hard for them.

“I like to create a bit of a personal relationship with my top agents – this creates a sense of loyalty on both parts,” she said. “I create a personal relationship with my market underwriters for the same reason. Organizational skills – having a good handle on workflow – is key to issuing quotes and binding business in a timely manner.”

Insurance Business America compiled the 2022 Top Specialist Brokers list after asking insurance professionals from across the country to nominate exceptional wholesale brokers. Nominators were asked to describe their nominees’ professional achievements over the past 12 months, as well as their contributions to the financial success of clients and business partners in 2021.

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