RISK MANAGEMENT
Additionally, you must ensure adequate security of
personal information acquired from your insureds and
provide proper privacy training to all employees. The use
of encryption and other measures to protect personal
data when transmitted is important. If employees use
smartphones, verify the phones are password protected.
As part of the establishment of standardized procedures,
make sure the staff in each location knows the method to
report an errors and omissions situation. Establish and
discuss the procedure with all agents and employees. Do
so regularly to prevent hesitation in reporting at the time of
occurrence. Don’t let problems linger. Delays could create
coverage issues with your professional liability carrier.
Communication is key to successfully running
multiple locations.
Free and open communication with all staff is very
important when you have multiple locations. Neither the
culture nor compliance can happen if you neglect to focus
on communication. Have weekly staff meetings by phone
or webinar. Have your office personnel get together at least
once or twice a year to enhance communication between
people.
Communicate your vision to all managers in all locations,
and they, in turn, must commit to communicating your
vision to others in the off-site agencies. Regular audits and
evaluations of the manager and the office are critical to
ensuring your vision is being carried out according to your
expectations.
While striving for positive energy in your organization,
do not avoid discussing problem situations. Consider
learning opportunities that may present themselves from
potential claims situations. Educate your employees about
conditions that have created problems in one office so
other office sites can avoid the same mistake.
Growth is positive when controlled, but be sure that the
“right-hand knows what the left hand is doing.” Consistent
culture, compliance, and communication throughout the
agency at all locations can be essential to preventing
confusion and potential claims which may otherwise arise
from acquisitions and dispersed locations.
Annette Hollingsworth has spent over 30 years in the insurance
industry. While with ERC /GE Insurance Solutions/ Swiss Re, Annette
Hollingsworth has served in various capacities, ranging from claims
to underwriting, legal to regulatory services, and global compliance.
Annette now serves in the Products unit, where she supports the
Insurance Agents Professional Liability underwriters in both the U.S. and
Canada. She attended Washburn University undergraduate and K.U.
Law School. She has her JD., CPCU, CLU, and ARC designations.
This article is intended to be used only for general informational
purposes and is not to be relied upon or used for any particular
purpose. Swiss Re shall not be held responsible in any way for, and
expressly disclaims any liability arising out of or in any way connected
to, reliance on or use of any of the information contained or referenced
in this article. The information contained or referenced in this article is
not intended to constitute. It should not be considered legal, accounting,
or professional advice, nor shall it serve as a substitute for the recipient
obtaining such advice. The views expressed in this article do not
necessarily represent the views of the Swiss Re Group (“Swiss Re”)
and/or its subsidiaries and/or management and/or shareholders.
Founded in 1895
KANSAS MUTUAL INSURANCE COMPANY
A- Excellent Rating by A.M. Best Co.
Kansas Mutual offers:
• Perfect balance between automation and personal
contact with staff.
• Fast and easy online quoting, endorsements, policy
maintenance, and history.
• No automated phone system. When you call, we
answer!
• Farm Protector, Homeowner, Mobile Home, and
Dwelling Fire.
• Agency downloads and multiple premium payment
options.
• Agency contracts available and room to grow in
most areas of Kansas.
Contact us
Today!
(800) 873-5642
www.kansasmutual.net
8