Ask any agent and they’ll tell you the same thing: It’s vital to know what your client’s lives are like, and the best way is through personal experience.
Farm Bureau Agent Shanna Black grew up on a farm in Monticello, Utah. She moved back to her hometown a decade ago, and the family business is still alive and well.
“My kids spend all of their summer days picking rocks and rye in the same fields that I did when I was a kid.”
What Is Your Background in Agriculture?
Growing up, I was raised on a dry-land farm. On my family's farm, we grew wheat, alfalfa and safflower. We also raised more than 100 head of cows. My parents and three brothers continue to run the farm.
Why Farm Bureau?
Farm Bureau has always been a great company. I love what Farm Bureau is and what it stands for. I love the federation and all that they do to better this community. Our clients are very loyal. One-third of our book has been with Farm Bureau for at least 20 years.
What Does a Typical Day Look Like for You?
A typical day in our office starts with a staff meeting where we discuss the tasks of the day. We then turn our attention to continuing education. We then focus on new business leads, problem solving, phone calls and SuperChecks. We are always working on upcoming projects and marketing strategies.
What Skills Do You Think are Most Important to Being a Good Agent?
I have found that the most important skill of being a good agent is being personable and teachable. This job comes with a lot of learning. You learn and grow every day, which means that you need to be willing to learn and ask for help. Something else that is essential as an agent is attention to detail.
What Do You Love Most About Your Job?
This job is hard and continues to push you and make you grow — which just might be my favorite part of my job. I love learning and growing. I also love that my job is constantly helping people.
What's the Best Piece of Advice You Can Give to New Agents?
Even though this job is hard at times, there is so much support within this company. We are all here to grow and help others do the same. If you push yourself to be the best that you can be, this job can become super flexible to what you want it to be. I think that it is also important to get involved in your community as soon as you can.
What Are You Most Excited to Do Career-wise in the Coming Year?
One thing that we have coming up this year that I am very excited about is preparing a younger audience to face the real world. I am planning on going into the local schools and helping the graduating students start thinking about their financial future.
Make a Difference in Your Community
Farm Bureau agents go above and beyond to support their local communities. If you’re looking to make a difference, contact us to learn how you can get started at Farm Bureau.