In this episode, James talks with Kimi Donahue, Sr. Agency Success Manager at Openly. To learn more about Openly, visit https://openly.com/. Visit our website to join our email list, get the scoop on our LIVE coaching calls and never miss an episode: https://www.agencyfreedom.com Connect with Agency Freedom Podcast on Facebook at the Agency Freedom Podcast group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/agencyfreedom Email us at [email protected] with ideas, questions, complaints or your favorite grilling recipe. Episode Highlights: Kimi discusses what led her to the insurance industry and her experiences along the way. (2:30) Kimi shares how her experience with State Farm has helped her throughout her insurance career. (8:42) Kimi mentions that the best part of her move to American Family Insurance was the chance to start her own agency. (11:15) Kimi explains that if you're leaving the captive world and going independent, it's important to keep your networks and let your referral partners know so they can continue to give you the business because you don't want those lead flows to stop. (15:22) Kimi believes one of the most refreshing aspects about joining Openly is that it does not feel corporate. (19:41) Kimi explains that it was difficult for her to secure direct appointments as a new agent with no experience as an independent agency owner, so she decided to join a cluster, which helped her and gave her network access. (27:47) James discusses that there is a connection between how involved you are with a group and what the daily operating benefits are. (34:55) Kimi advises new agents to handle agency billing by collecting payment from the insured before the policy renews and before binding it. (38:39) James and Kimi discuss the importance of understanding the policies that you are selling. (47:07) Key Quotes: “If you're leaving the captive world and going independent, keep your networks. You want to make sure your referral partners know when you make the move so they know to continue to send you business because you don't want those lead flows to stop. Which was also why having a CRM is really important so that you can start creating your pipeline again.” - Kimi Donahue “I hire a coach for almost everything, you know, even down to a personal trainer, because I'm not going to necessarily push myself to the next level, you know, just by myself. So, I do rely on others to help.” - Kimi Donahue “There's a great tip or advice for new agents. Agency billing, make sure you collect that payment from the insured before it renews, before you bind it, all of the above. Because, agency bill means what they bill you, and they will.” - Kimi Donahue

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