Has your business ever been more uncertain than it is today?
The U.S. economy is in complete disarray. Consumers and businesses are having a tough time obtaining the credit to live and work as they are used to, and they are meanwhile drowning in debt that's becoming increasingly more difficult to repay. Many don't know whether they'll have a job in a month, much less a year. There are more homes on the market than there is demand.
The headlines emblazoned on the personal finance blogs say it all: "U.S. Highest Unemployment Rate Since 1994 -- What Can We Do About It?" "5 Tips for Throwing a Holiday Party Recession Style." "How to Make Wise Financial Decisions in a Recession."
Now, add this to the mix: A new administration will enter the White House in January. Our president-elect has proposed reforms for health care, estate taxes, long term care financing, and Medicare. He'll be appointing a new chair of the Securities and Exchange Commission when current chair Christopher Cox steps down at the end of the Bush administration. Widespread oversight reforms also expand the likelihood of the nation's first federal regulatory agency for insurers. And let's not forget a significant shift in tax burdens.
In the coming months, we all need to prepare for change -- and that may include a shift in the way you run your practice. This is no time for rigidity. Your current business model may not hold -- but rest assured, we'll be on top of the latest how-to information on how to run your practice in a rapidly transforming industry and economy.
In 2009, we'll be broadening and deepening our editorial focus to include improved, up-to-date coverage of the markets in which you work. And our online offerings will expand, as well, with more tools to help you better run your business and more opportunities to contribute your voice.
To begin, our LTCI and Medicare Resource Centers were designed to give you everything you need to succeed in these markets. More resource centers will be unveiled throughout the year. And at www.AgentsSalesJournal.com, you can sign up to receive bonus coverage in your email inbox -- including our popular monthly Highlights and Inbox e-newsletters and breaking news alerts.
Also look for our monthly podcast series, which will continue to deliver thoughtful expert dialogue on the issues that affect your business each and every day. (www.AgentsSalesJournal.com/podcasts).
Remember: Uncertainty should not create fear. It simply necessitates change. And with some help, change is not that scary.
In this issue
In a move to help you more efficiently run your business, the 4th Annual Technology Resource Directory offers expert advice on more effectively utilizing agency management systems, point-of-sale software, and more -- plus, we list more than 70 companies that offer technological tools specifically for insurance agents. And if you're not sure where to start, find suggestions on questions you should ask potential vendors when looking for a software solution.
Phil Wilkins offers his experience as a certified diversity professional to help you better market to minority communities -- plus industry insiders offer their perspectives on diversity marketing through case studies based on their own efforts.
We also offer advice on positioning yourself to prospects and clients, outsourcing your daily administrative tasks for a more streamlined practice, and creative marketing that doesn't need to break the bank.
And as always, we want to hear from you. Please don't hesitate to send us an email at ASJeditor@AgentMediaCorp.com, give us a call at 800-933-9449 ext. 226, or write us a letter at 1255 Cleveland Street, Suite 200, Clearwater, FL, 33755. You can also reach us through our convenient online submission form at www.AgentsSalesJournal.com.
In these tough times, we rely on your input to let us know what you need to succeed. We can't do this without our readers -- so get in touch today and let us know how we're doing and how we can better serve you. To us, you are the most important person in the room.
Sincerely,
Christina Pellett
Managing editor
ASJeditor@AgentMediaCorp.com
