Client communications

Brokerages are struggling to retain workers and it may be time to take a hard look at hiring practices.

BHC Insurance’s James McMillan, one of this year's Rising Stars, embraces technology to explain benefits but says “the best form of explanation is always direct one on one contact.”

Retirees who opt to file at a much later date can earn delayed retirement credits that could boost their benefits by as much as 32%.

American Fidelity’s Michael Hart, one of this year’s Rising Stars, looks to provide service to take care of customers “when they had the worst day of their life.”

These young standout advisers see a changing workforce sparking new benefits for gig workers, student loan debt relief and better engagement tactics from employers. Ranging in age from 26 to 35, they represent the next generation ready to make their mark on an evolving industry.

Ed Ligondé discusses the direction he sees advisers going as they move away from the broker role toward a more consultative role with clients.

“I’m always looking at cutting down pharmacy costs,” says Rising Star Jessica McCool. “It’s becoming a bigger piece of the pie for benefit plans.”

In the wake of the CVS-Aetna merger, Cigna-Express Scripts partnership and other deals, a new future is emerging in the benefits world.

More clients are tailoring packages to meet the varying wants and needs of workers. They’re offering mixes of bonuses, flex time, paid time off, retirement plans, career development and more.

Meredith Colbert, one of EBA’s 2019 Rising Stars in Advising, uses her own experience to bolster young advisers at her firm.