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Agency Launch

Agency Launch

By Matt Dietz

A look into the life of the owner of an insurance agency. I opened my agency in 2004. I talk about sales, marketing, staffing and retention. If you can master these 4 things, you can write your own ticket. Get in.
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How investing in yourself literally pays for itself quickly.

Agency LaunchAug 02, 2022

00:00
07:05
Tech or Trap? Making Smart Choices in Agency Tools

Tech or Trap? Making Smart Choices in Agency Tools


💬 Show Notes


? Show Notes


In today's cost-conscious episode of Agency Launch, Matt takes you through the critical exercise of auditing your agency's expenses to ensure financial health and optimal cash flow. He shares his own experiences and the revelations that come from scrutinizing outgoing costs, driving home the principle that in business, it's not just what you make, but what you keep. Matt discusses the importance of distinguishing between essential tools that drive income and the shiny allure of tech solutions that may not add value to your agency. He candidly recounts his decision to cancel services like agency Zoom, which, despite their potential, weren't contributing to his bottom line. With a focus on practicality, Matt champions the use of simple, cost-effective tools like Google Sheets and spiral notebooks for task management over more complex systems, questioning the need for high-cost tech when affordable or existing solutions can do the job. He encourages listeners to consider whether each expense is truly making them more money or saving time. Matt also shares his success with tools like BombBomb for video outreach, illustrating the impact of selecting the right tech that aligns with your business model. This episode is a call to action for all agents to rigorously evaluate their expenses and to think creatively about how to maximize resources. For those looking to refine their approach to renewals amidst rate increases, Matt offers a valuable resource—simply text "email" to 208-213-8809. And for personalized coaching, visit agencylaunch.net. Join us to learn how to keep a tight ship and steer your agency towards greater profitability.


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? Episode Chapters


(00:00) Introduction to agency expenses and cash flow management

(02:50) The value of conducting an expense audit

(05:15) Deciding which tech solutions are worth the investment

(07:40) Matt's experience with canceling agency Zoom and its implications

(09:30) Embracing simple tools for efficiency and cost savings

(11:25) Evaluating tech solutions based on time savings and revenue generation

(13:00) The strategic use of tech like BombBomb for business growth

(15:10) The importance of scrutinizing every expense in your agency

(17:00) Resources for managing renewals and personal coaching offerings


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Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/agencylaunch/message


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Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/agencylaunch/message


Show notes created by https://headliner.app

Apr 18, 202412:43
Beyond Salary: Crafting Comp Packages That Truly Motivate

Beyond Salary: Crafting Comp Packages That Truly Motivate


💬 Show Notes


? Show Notes


In this innovative episode of Agency Launch, our host Matt delves into the evolving landscape of staffing in the post-pandemic world. He acknowledges the perennial challenge of finding exceptional talent and the curious situation where businesses struggle to hire despite a high number of job seekers. Matt shifts the conversation from traditional compensation packages to a more creative approach that prioritizes quality of life and work-life balance. He proposes radical ideas like shorter work weeks, goal-oriented work schedules, and the flexibility to take time off upon achieving targets. Sharing insights from his wife's medical practice and his own agency, Matt highlights how unconventional work arrangements can attract a specific workforce eager for long weekends and a different kind of work satisfaction. He encourages listeners to think outside the box when it comes to employee benefits, suggesting that sometimes, an extra day off can be more valuable than a raise. Matt emphasizes the importance of nurturing your team and cultivating a high-performing agency culture that aligns with the needs and aspirations of your staff. For those seeking guidance on building such an environment, Matt extends an offer to assist through his coaching services at agencylaunch.net. He also reminds listeners to text "email" to 208-213-8809 for resources to help with client retention amid rate increases. Join us for this episode of Agency Launch to discover how reimagining staff incentives can lead to a thriving agency.


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Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/agencylaunch/message


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? Episode Chapters


(00:00) Introduction to the staffing challenges in the current landscape

(02:40) The dichotomy between job availability and business hiring struggles

(04:15) Rethinking compensation: Beyond salary and bonuses

(06:30) The allure of shorter work weeks and goal-oriented schedules

(09:20) Real-life examples of unconventional work arrangements

(12:45) How to attract staff with the promise of quality of life benefits

(15:10) The significance of nurturing and building a strong agency culture

(17:30) Matt's coaching invitation and resources for managing client rate increases


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📋 Episode Chapters


(00:00) Today I wanted to talk a little bit about staffing

(05:32) I gave Megan my office every other Wednesday off. 26 days off a year. That was her raise at her last review

(06:15) Take care of your people. Be the boss. You have to encourage, but you also have to get performance out of them

Apr 09, 202411:38
Internet Leads or In-House Talent: Where Should Your $ Go?

Internet Leads or In-House Talent: Where Should Your $ Go?

💬 Show Notes


? Show Notes


In this thought-provoking episode of Agency Launch, we follow the stream of consciousness of our host, Matt, as he reflects on a recent conversation with a fellow agent. The topic at hand? The heavy reliance on Internet leads. With an agent spending $7,000 a month on leads alone, Matt unpacks the potential pitfalls of such an approach. He contrasts the high cost of Internet leads with the value of investing in your team's ability to generate organic referrals and build lasting relationships. Matt questions the sustainability of putting all your eggs in one basket and warns of industry changes that could disrupt this model. Instead, he champions the power of teaching your team to fish for themselves, outlining the benefits of directing your budget towards payroll and coaching rather than purchased leads. Matt's strategy is clear: focus on efficiency and skill-building to reduce expenses and boost sales, thereby accelerating your agency's growth. For agents hungry to learn more, Matt extends an invitation to visit agencylaunch.net and consider the possibilities of a partnership. Plus, don't miss out on a valuable resource for managing renewals by texting "email" to 208-213-8809. Tune in for a session full of insights that challenge the status quo and encourage every agent to rethink their growth strategy.


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Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/agencylaunch/message


Show notes created by https://headliner.app


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? Episode Chapters


(00:00) Introduction: Reflections on a conversation about Internet leads

(02:50) The high cost of Internet leads and the question of sustainability

(05:15) The importance of diversifying marketing strategies

(07:40) Investing in your team's skills versus spending on leads

(09:30) The potential impact of industry changes on lead-based growth models

(11:25) Matt's vision for efficient and skillful agency growth

(13:00) How to save money while increasing sales with the right strategies

(15:10) Matt's offer to help agents reduce expenses and improve sales

(17:00) Closing thoughts and resources for managing renewals


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Apr 03, 202411:24
One more quote per day= $15,000 in your pocket

One more quote per day= $15,000 in your pocket

💬 Show Notes


In this episode of Agency Launch, we dive deep into the art of maximizing team efficiency without tipping the scales towards burnout. Our host Matt shares his passion for helping agents squeeze out every drop of productivity from their teams, emphasizing the fine balance between driving performance and preserving morale. He recounts experiences with hardworking staff who exemplified focus and efficiency, reshaping his expectations for what a dedicated team can achieve. Matt then engages in a stimulating conversation with an agent who's already excelling in the field, yet could be leaving money on the table. They explore the potential impact of increasing daily quotes by just one per producer. The numbers speak volumes: 60 additional quotes a month could mean 37 more policies and a significant boost in premium—enough to justify generous raises and still increase profits. Matt challenges listeners to consider the "one more quote a day" strategy, whether you're a solo operator or managing a team, and shares the exciting early results of this approach. It's not just about working harder; it's about working smarter and recognizing the untapped opportunities within your agency's daily grind. Tune in for this mathematical motivation session, and remember to text "email" to 208-213-8809 for a valuable email template to assist with renewals. Plus, explore agencylaunch.net for more resources to accelerate your agency's growth.


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Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/agencylaunch/message


Show notes created by https://headliner.app


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? Episode Chapters


(00:00) Introduction to maximizing team efficiency

(02:40) The balance between productivity and avoiding burnout

(04:15) Real-life examples of efficient and focused team members

(06:30) Discussing the potential of increasing daily quotes

(09:20) The substantial impact of "one more quote a day" strategy

(12:45) Matt's challenge to listeners to try the strategy

(15:10) How small changes can lead to significant premium increases

(17:30) Encouragement to reach out for resources and support


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Mar 27, 202409:44
Navigating Sky-High Renewals: A Tactical Guide for Agents

Navigating Sky-High Renewals: A Tactical Guide for Agents

💬 Show Notes


? Show Notes


In this revealing episode of Agency Launch, we tackle the hot topic of soaring renewal rates and how to handle the tough conversations with your clients. With homeowners policies increasing by 40-50% in Idaho, our host Matt shares his proactive approach to mitigating client discomfort and maintaining trust. Discover the power of transparency as Matt walks you through his personal strategy of sending out carefully crafted emails with a personal touch. Learn how to audit policies, suggest deductible adjustments, and explore payment options to ease the financial burden on your clients. Matt doesn't just offer a band-aid solution; he provides a wealth of information to help clients understand the 'why' behind the increases. Whether it's raising deductibles, bundling policies, or leveraging discounts, this episode is filled with practical tips to help you navigate these challenging times. Plus, Matt extends an invitation to text him for a copy of the very letter he's using to communicate with clients. Tune in to gain insights on how to proactively reach out, offer policy reviews, and ultimately, how to ensure your clients feel valued and informed. Don't let rate increases shake the foundation of your client relationships—get ahead of the game with Agency Launch.


Text "email" to 208-213-8809 to receive Matt's template for communicating with clients about rate increases, and visit agencylaunch.net for comprehensive support in managing your agency's challenges.


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Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/agencylaunch/message


Show notes created by https://headliner.app


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? Episode Chapters


(00:00) Introduction to the challenge of handling significant policy renewals

(02:50) The strategy of sending personalized emails to clients about rate increases

(05:30) The importance of auditing policies and offering deductible options

(08:15) How to communicate the reasons behind rate increases to clients

(11:40) Tips for leveraging discounts and payment options to save clients money

(14:20) The value of reaching out for policy reviews and client appreciation

(17:05) Matt's invitation to connect and access his master course for agency growth

(19:50) Final thoughts on the importance of proactive client communication

Mar 19, 202411:31
The one question should ask an employee if there is a real concern

The one question should ask an employee if there is a real concern

💬 Show Notes


In today's episode of Agency Launch, we delve into the nitty-gritty of staffing challenges and how to navigate the complexities of employee performance. Have you ever sensed that an employee's enthusiasm is waning, or noticed a mysterious dip in their work quality? It's a common dilemma in the agency world, and we're here to tackle it head-on. We share personal anecdotes and hard-earned wisdom from 19 years in the business, offering a candid look at employee retention, the three-year itch, and the reality that no employee is perfect. We discuss the importance of embracing your staff's quirks while maintaining performance standards, and how to approach the delicate conversation when an employee's commitment is in question. Plus, we reveal the one question that can change the game: "Do you still want to work here?" This episode is packed with actionable advice for agency owners who want to foster a dedicated team and ensure their agency thrives. Don't miss out on these insights that could make or break your staffing success.


Text "email" to 208-213-8809 for a valuable resource to help you manage those tough renewal conversations, and visit agencylaunch.net for expert guidance on supercharging your agency's growth.


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Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/agencylaunch/message


Show notes created by https://headliner.app


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? Episode Chapters


(00:00) Introduction to staffing challenges and employee retention

(02:45) Accepting imperfections and quirks in employees

(05:33) The pivotal question for assessing an employee's commitment

(07:50) How to address performance issues with compassion and clarity

(10:15) The importance of the employer's support role

(12:30) Preparing for the potential end of an employee's tenure

(14:05) Final thoughts and resources for agency owners


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Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/agencylaunch/message


Show notes created by https://headliner.app


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📋 Episode Chapters


(00:00) One of the toughest things in staffing is finding good people and then keeping them

(07:46) Ask the question do you still want to work here? Is a whopper

(09:38) Matt Deets offers help accelerating your career significantly faster than it's moving

Mar 14, 202412:38
Reach a little higher

Reach a little higher

💬 Show Notes


Unleash your agency's full potential with a simple yet profound lesson in today's episode of Agency Launch! Ever wondered if you're truly giving your all? We dive into the power of pushing past your perceived limits and the transformative impact of that extra stretch in both your professional and personal life. Discover how small changes in your daily routine can prevent massive headaches down the line. From ensuring policy issues to perfecting your sales and marketing strategies, we dissect real-life scenarios to highlight the importance of going the extra mile. Plus, learn how to refine your processes, teach your team effectively, and protect not just your business, but your peace of mind. Don't miss out on these invaluable insights to streamline your operations and elevate your agency from good to great. Remember, it's not just about solving problems; it's about preventing them. Tune in, get inspired, and stretch a little higher!


Text "email" to 208-213-8809 for a free resource to help your clients understand their rate changes, and visit agencylaunch.net for more on how to optimize your agency's performance.


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Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/agencylaunch/message


Show notes created by https://headliner.app


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📋 Episode Chapters


(00:00) What can you do a little better in your business to improve efficiency

(04:53) The only person that holds you accountable is yourself

(08:29) Matt with cities agency launch helps clients deal with large renewals

Mar 07, 202411:11
How I survived my first 5 years in business

How I survived my first 5 years in business

Send me a text at 208-213-8809 with the word "email" for a free letter you can send to your clients explaining why their rates are doing what they are doing.


Check out my master program Agency Launch.

💬 Show Notes


Navigating Rate Cycles and Entrepreneurial Insights with Matt Dietz


Are you feeling the heat from clients as rates fluctuate? Matt Dietz is back with another insightful episode of Agency Launch, where he delves deep into the world of insurance agency operations. With 19 years of experience under his belt, Matt shares his personal journey, offering wisdom on sales, marketing, staffing, retention, and beyond.


In this episode, Matt generously offers a free, expertly crafted letter to help you communicate with clients during these challenging rate cycles—a tool he's personally using to great success. Simply text "email" to 208-213-8809, and Matt will send it your way.


But that's not all. Matt also introduces Brightco, an online jewelry insurance platform that simplifies the quoting and binding process, promising a seamless experience for both agents and clients. Discover more about Brightco by visiting briteco.MattDietz.com.


Dive into Matt's experience as a panelist for entrepreneurs, where he shares his greatest strengths and weaknesses and how they've shaped his business. Hear his strategies for survival in the initial years of entrepreneurship, balancing workload with personal life, and the evolution of his target audience and ideal customer.


Matt also discusses his top strategies for generating new commercial leads and systems for lead conversion, emphasizing the significance of relentless follow-up and maintaining a robust pipeline. Lastly, he touches on the importance of customer service and how simple, responsive actions can set you apart in the industry.


For more golden nuggets on running an insurance agency and to learn about Matt's Agency Launch Master Program, tune in to this episode and don't miss out on the chance for one-on-one coaching with Matt himself. Text "commercial" to 208-213-8809 for more insights, and visit agencylaunch.net for further details.


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Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/agencylaunch/message


Show notes created by https://headliner.app


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📋 Episode Chapters


(00:00) Matt Dietz talks about what it's like to run an insurance agency

(00:18) I'm going to give you a letter you can email to your clients

(01:08) Brightco is an online jewelry insurance company that makes buying insurance so easy

(02:20) Matt Miller: I was asked recently to talk to a group of realtors

(03:18) What's your greatest strength as an entrepreneur? How do you utilize it

(07:22) The majority of businesses fail in their first five years, according to research

(13:09) Talk about your workload and how many hours a week you work

(19:31) Do I take more vacation? I don't take a lot of vacation

(20:33) Home and auto is where the bulk of our business is

(22:30) I love working with small business owners, that's my target market

(24:32) What are your top three strategies for generating new business commercial leads currently

(30:24) Matt : I love the chase. Like, I am tenacious

(37:08) Customer service and service experiences are critical for any business

(42:38) Make it fun, make it a game. Impress people that way

(42:53) Matt: Thanks to nick for putting this together and asking me these questions


Feb 29, 202444:11
Don't make this mistake when giving answers to clients
Feb 20, 202410:26
One powerful trick to earn referrals
Feb 13, 202412:17
 The Future of AI: What to Expect and Prepare For
Feb 07, 202414:44
3 ways to protect your time
Feb 01, 202411:28
How a $30 investment can increase your sales by 20%
Jan 25, 202406:56
How to write 96 Medicare policies in 7 weeks.
Jan 15, 202450:50
How to use recorded calls for training new employees
Jan 09, 202408:60
Comparison is the thief of joy
Dec 19, 202310:39
How to plan to write $100k in workers comp next year
Dec 11, 202311:34
7 questions to ask when buying a book of business
Dec 06, 202312:52
Would you read a free book, or a $100 book?
Nov 29, 202311:44
Do you know HOW to set your goals

Do you know HOW to set your goals

Text "commercial" to 208-213-8809 for a free resource on how to start writing commercial

Agency Launch Master Program
Nov 21, 202309:53
Your numbers tell a story! Share them with your team.
Nov 13, 202311:40
PIVOT!!!

PIVOT!!!

Send me a text that says "commercial" and I will send you a free resource on how to start writing commercial insurance. Text me 208-213-8809

Nov 08, 202310:27
How to sell with "perceived value"
Nov 01, 202312:06
You are a MARKETER!
Oct 26, 202312:31
Less email. More conversations
Oct 18, 202311:36
Have your team's back
Oct 11, 202312:34
The actual formula to hit your goals
Oct 05, 202310:38
Stop looking for easy
Sep 27, 202312:54
Use easy language when talking to a prospect or client
Sep 19, 202313:52
Don't start your day with bad news
Sep 13, 202310:12
Embrace the Chase!
Sep 06, 202311:04
Go solo for one day.
Aug 29, 202310:50
Delegating needs to be your superpower
Aug 22, 202310:60
A life insurance sales strategy you are currently not using
Aug 17, 202309:46
Jay Falconio from Remco Insurance Services

Jay Falconio from Remco Insurance Services

Text me 208-213-8809

Aug 08, 202351:08
Get your a** out of the office!
Aug 01, 202310:41
Best practices for insurance reviews

Best practices for insurance reviews

Text me 20 policies to 208-213-8809


Jul 19, 202312:23
Be professionally aggressive when you need to get something done
Jul 17, 202309:40
How to realize the dream you are having about your business
Jul 11, 202311:60
What is a subpar employee costing you?
Jul 05, 202312:05
Be the Hero you said you would be.

Be the Hero you said you would be.

Text me! "chat with Matt" to 208-213-8809


Agency Launch

Jun 08, 202309:13
2 tips on how to have a strong marriage while owning a business
May 30, 202311:07
You're an artist
May 24, 202310:43
How to train your clients
May 16, 202313:09
Building a business buying leads is significantly harder and more expensive than you are being told
May 09, 202310:21
THE most important thing to do when you work an event.

THE most important thing to do when you work an event.

Send me a text 208-213-8809


[00:00:00] Podcast host discusses strategies for running an insurance agency, including sales, marketing, staffing, retention, and customer service. Offers a free asset to listeners who text him to learn how to write 20 policies in a week.

[00:01:24] Offline events like pet shows, children's fairs, and home and garden shows are great for getting your own leads.

[00:02:05] An opportunity to earn $1,000 by writing ten policies for a specialty car insurance company called Hagerty. The author describes how working at events and getting to know the local chapter and national president can increase chances of making sales.

[00:02:54] Man masters insurance info & helps community.

[00:03:26] Person needs to collect information to start a drip campaign.

[00:04:20] Offer for insurance services after purchasing Corvette. Advised to send out videos/emails to potential clients. Success story of getting two policies from attending events.

[00:05:12] The text advises asking for people's business and present oneself as an expert while collecting contact information to build a pipeline through manual or automated means.

[00:06:21] Tips for cultivating a business pipeline: set goals for lead generation at networking events, follow up on leads, consider using a landing page or QR code to collect information.

[00:07:18] Share car details to connect with fellow car enthusiasts and have meaningful conversations to gain their business.

[00:08:15] This is a call to action to contact Matt for exciting offers and book a call with him.

May 03, 202308:58
A less invasive way to ask for referrals

A less invasive way to ask for referrals

Text "20 policies" to 208-213-8809


Agency Launch program


[00:00:00] Matt Dietz discusses strategies for insurance agents on his show Agency Launch, including sales, marketing, staffing, retention, and customer service. He offers a free asset on finding potential clients to those who text him at 208-213-8809.

[00:00:56] Matt shares their weakness in asking for referrals in their career. They disliked asking for referrals right after making a sale and found it uncomfortable.

[00:01:47] Don't ask for referrals immediately after a sale, build a relationship first. Referrals come more naturally after six months or a year.

[00:02:41] I usually asks for referrals to get commercial business but will try something new with clients and newer accounts, such as asking those buying a new line of business for referrals. They recently sold life insurance to a couple who also bought a house and business.

[00:03:29] I am confident in their work and asks clients to make a post about their services in exchange for delivering life insurance policies.

[00:04:32] Asking for a favor to take a picture of life insurance policies and recommend the agent who made the process easy.

[00:05:12] Helping people with their life insurance and commercial stuff, crafting emotional post to ask for help.

[00:06:00] Matt was helpful and made acquiring life insurance affordable. Contact him for any needs. Referral is a powerful testimonial to many.

[00:06:30] Obtain as many Google reviews as possible to target trusted individuals who will refer others. Good for business growth.

[00:07:02] More referrals through networking, particularly in small towns – a great way to brand.

Apr 25, 202309:19
How to save a high value client through education
Apr 18, 202310:01
What if my home and auto premiums are never competitive?
Apr 11, 202312:09
A givers gain marketing storty
Apr 05, 202309:30