YAK
YOUNG AGENTS of KANSAS
Bryce Burdiek
Years in Industry: 8
Email: [email protected]
Office phone: 785-336-2821
HOW DID YOU GET INTO THE INDUSTRY?
In 2009, I started in the Insurance Industry working as a
property claims adjuster. I adjusted many storm (wind and
hail) claims and eventually worked into larger property
losses such as water and fire. In 2013, I had the opportunity
to move home and take a little different route within the
insurance industry by moving to the agency side.
WHAT BENEFITS DO YOUNG AGENTS BRING
TO THE INDUSTRY?
Being a young agent helps me relate to the continuous
change of technology within the industry.
HOW DO YOU SEE THE INDUSTRY CHANGING
IN THE NEXT 5-10 YEARS?
Like with most industries, technology continues to
change every day. Insurance is no different. The agent
and insured can now do more work on a policy through
computers & smart phones than ever before. Automated
business is growing and I feel it’s the agent’s job to help
the customer with this transition.
WHO/WHAT HAVE BEEN YOUR GREATEST
RESOURCES IN THIS INDUSTRY AND WHY?
Bryce Burdiek
WHAT IS YOUR GREATEST REWARD AS AN
INDEPENDENT INSURANCE AGENT?
The greatest reward is simply helping people in their time
of need. In a time of loss, it’s gratifying to help people get
back on their feet.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU LIKE TO SHARE
WITH PRINCIPALS WHO HAVE BEEN IN THE
BUSINESS MORE THAN 10 YEARS?
Even though I am not at the 10 year mark yet myself, I
would say continue to follow up with your customers whom
you have not spoken with lately. Being an agent requires
continual contact with the customer.
WHAT ARE YOUR FUTURE PLANS?
Being from small town Centralia, Kan., and loving that
lifestyle, I plan to continue to help out rural Kansas
farmers & ranchers with their insurance needs.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO AN
INCOMING YOUNG AGENT?
1. Don’t be afraid to ask questions
2. Listen to the customer and be there for them when needed
3. Network with colleagues and companies in the industry
There have been many “who’s” along the way. Insurance
coverages and policy language can be very complex.
Also, in insurance you deal with many different people
in many different situations. Without mentors and a
willingness to learn, a new individual to the industry
doesn’t stand a chance.
| September - October 2017 | KANSAS INSURANCE AGENT & BROKER
9