Jonathan Wheat's Journey in Insurance: Insights from a Committee Meeting
Introduction
Thank you guys! I'm Jonathan Wheat from EPIC Insurance Brokers, currently serving as the Senior Vice President in the Los Angeles office. My main focus is on developers and real estate investors, primarily in Southern California, but we have a national presence as well. My journey in this industry has been anything but linear, and today, I want to share some insights and experiences that have shaped my career.
Early Beginnings: From Richmond to Insurance
Growing up in Richmond, California, I had no exposure to the world of finance or insurance. My father ran a liquor store, and the idea of working in finance seemed distant. When I got to college, I initially aimed to work in Investment Banking (IB). However, I quickly realized that my skills were better suited to something less intense. This led me to underwriting, where I found my first foothold in the industry.
The Underwriting Phase: Learning the Ropes
Underwriting was an excellent entry point, but it came with its own set of limitations. The strict rules and the compensation structure didn't quite align with my ambitions. The people in front of clients were getting paid more, and that discrepancy didn't sit well with me. Over the years, I had stints at Chubb, Zurich, and most recently, AIG Risk Management before making the switch to EPIC three years ago.
Embracing Change: The Move to Epic
One of the reasons I love working at EPIC is the freedom to break away from traditional rules. Our culture is all about innovation and taking care of our clients. We thrive on the principle of "eat what you kill," and my team excels in this environment. Our success is a testament to the hard work and adaptability we've shown over the years.
Adaptability: A Crucial Skill
Adaptability has been a cornerstone of my career. Steve Jobs once said, "You can't connect the dots looking forward; you can only connect them looking backward." I've found this to be incredibly true. My diverse background and experiences have allowed me to empathize with a wide range of clients, from hotel owners in New York to teachers' unions in Texas.
The Role of Mentorship and Preparation
I always knew I wanted to be in sales, but my path wasn't straightforward. Before transitioning into my current role, I meticulously planned my move. I reached out to multiple mentors, synthesized their advice, and created a comprehensive PowerPoint presentation for various brokerages. This preparation was crucial to my success.
"If you've done all the work you believe you can do to get yourself prepared, then execution is the next step."
Branding and Social Media: The Future of Professional Identity
Branding is becoming increasingly important in today's digital age. In ten years, having a strong social media presence will be as essential as having a college degree. It's crucial to put yourself in situations that stretch your limits and then show up ready to perform. Your reputation will build upon itself, so don't be afraid to champion yourself.
Emphasizing Diversity and Inclusion
Being Puerto Rican and African American, and having a Chinese fiancée, I understand the importance of diversity. It's disheartening to see talented people not reaching their full potential because they are not willing to speak up. My advice is to always raise your hand and take risks. The worst that can happen is that you'll learn and get better.
The Fun in Being a Team Leader
What I enjoy most about my job is its dynamic nature. As a broker, my role isn't limited to insurance. It's about assembling the right team and resources for my clients. I see myself as the CEO of my team, ensuring that everyone is doing their part to achieve the best results. This collaborative approach makes my job endlessly exciting.
Real-World Applications
Whether it's attending real estate conferences or charter school events, I enjoy blending into these communities. I often feel like a part of these industries, and this diverse experience allows me to think like a CEO or a business owner. It's a unique position that makes my job incredibly fulfilling.
Conclusion
My journey in the insurance industry has been anything but straightforward, but it's the challenges and adaptations that have made it worthwhile. From my early days in Richmond to my current role at Epic, each experience has taught me valuable lessons. I'm excited about the future and the continuous opportunities for growth and success. Thank you for being part of this journey, and here's to many more wins!
Jonathan Wheat's insights have been invaluable, shedding light on the multifaceted world of insurance and sales. This conversation truly goes beyond traditional insurance, offering a glimpse into the future of professional branding and success.
Feel free to leave comments or reach out if you have any questions or want to share your journey in the industry. Let's keep the conversation going!
