Changing industries is a big adjustment. There’s a whole new vernacular to learn, new people to meet and an entirely new world to adjust to. But what about making the move from one part of an industry to another?
That’s exactly what Tyler Jeffs did in 2004, when he switched from ag sales to the insurance industry – a move he says is the best one he’s ever made. Before then, he worked at a seed and feed store, providing all types of ag supplies to ranchers and farmers in his area.
Working at Farm Bureau is a great match for people like Tyler who have ag backgrounds. After all, Farm Bureau started more than 85 years ago to meet the unique insurance needs of farmers. We’re the top ag insurer, and we offer our customers a range of specialized insurance products including farm/ranch liability coverage, farm vehicle insurance, crop insurance, livestock revenue insurance and equine insurance.
Tyler is an AgWise Certified agent, a designation he earned based on his extensive knowledge of ag products as well as experience in assisting producers in insuring ag operations correctly. He also runs his own ranch.
Over the last five years, Tyler has become one of the top five crop insurance writers for Farm Bureau Financial Services. The ag community trusts Tyler in providing crop insurance products to protect their ranches, farms and livestock.
Here, he shares his thoughts about how he became a Farm Bureau insurance agent and how his passion for ranching has helped him develop in a niche market.
What Inspired You to Make the Change From Ag Sales to Ag Insurance?
Another Farm Bureau agent recognized my passion for ag and knew I wanted to be self-employed. I was working hard for someone else and making them money. I knew my own effort would pay off. I wanted to take care of my family on my terms, with my own hours.
I was working so much on others’ ranches that mine was being neglected, and honestly, it didn't pay well. Now, I get to work with all the same people, I get paid drastically better, I have better hours and I get to spend the time farming and ranching that I want to.
What’s Been the Biggest Adjustment?
My biggest adjustment is how I perceive myself. Maybe that sounds odd. But my role as an agent is crucial to families, and I have a big responsibility to them. This isn't a job to me. This is who I am.
What Does It Mean to Be an AgWise Certified Agent?
The role of a good Farm Bureau agent changes the lives of ag producers. It sounds corny, but being proactive and doing the right things for the client can make positive generational differences. The feeling of satisfaction that comes from that is deeply personal. I keep the current generation profitable and the next generation in the game.
What Does Your Day-to-Day Look Like?
I go on-site to a lot of farms and ranches during the day. I have a great staff that handles office needs and call-ins. My clients love and appreciate my background. Most insurance agents don't really know what it means to have a true understanding of ag. Most insurance agents might not have a true understanding of ag, but my client/members like that I appreciate what they’ve built and can maybe even help with a chore on their farm or ranch.
Do You Have Any Advice for New Agents Looking to Connect With Their Client/Members?
My best advice to new agents would be a few things:
- Work hard and put in the hours. Most people can’t handle being self-employed. They can’t manage their own time.
- Give it time to work. Working hard and doing the job correctly brings major rewards. So don’t give up. Be willing to go through the hard times. The horizon is wonderful!
- Learn from the best. Surround yourself with those in the industry who are the best. Take them to lunch, quiz them, ask for advice then act on the advice.
What Is the Best Piece of Advice You Received When You Got Started That You Still Think About Today?
The best advice I was given was to hang in there. It will work out if you operate correctly. Hire the right people for the right job. You can’t get where you need to be being a one-man show. Develop yourself spiritually, professionally and mentally. Be balanced. Be a resource others can count on for guidance.
What Do You Love Most About Being a Farm Bureau Agent?
Making the change was the best thing I ever did. I work my rear end off, but this is my passion, along with my own ranch. I’m very blessed to do both.
Your Ag Background Can Earn You a Bonus as a Farm Bureau Agent
At Farm Bureau, we know the value an agriculture background brings to our industry. Experience in ranching, farming or ag means you can connect with prospects and clients in a genuine way. You understand — firsthand — the challenges the ag community may face and the ways insurance can help protect them.
So, we offer an Ag Affinity Bonus of up to $25,000 for new agents who have a background in agriculture.
You may be eligible for this bonus if you:
- Have at least three years of experience with an agriculture-related company or operation.
- Have a signed agent contract for payment.
- Have an established ag market within your community.
- Meet bonus schedule production requirements.
Are you ready to start a business that supports the agricultural industry and gives you the opportunities you’re looking for? Reach out to a District Manager today to learn how to get started.