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Two young brokers who were recently recognised by NIBA as some of the best in the business have revealed the secrets behind their success and shared advice on getting ahead.
James Pearsons, who was one of four finalists for this year’s Victoria/Tasmania Young Professional Broker of the Year Award, said his passion and critical thinking skills had put him in good stead for a career in insurance.
“I would suggest that one of my most unique characteristics is the ability to think through a problem and develop a solution that might not be seen as conventional,” he told Insurance Business. “When combined with my passion, it means I can deliver results and solutions that are highly effective and provide great outcomes for my clients.”
Pearsons, who is currently a senior account executive with Marsh, also said having a mentor – specifically one who isn’t seen as a friend – had helped push him forward professionally.
“I don’t necessarily always get along with my mentor or agree with their point of view but that’s what strengthens our relationship and challenges my development,” he said. “My mentor has been instrumental in helping me make decisions and with personal career development.”
Fellow Marsh broker Marcus Pallotta was also recognised by NIBA earlier this year, winning the 2018 Young Professional broker of the Year Award for Western Australia.
“We had a very strong group of finalists for the state and national awards this year, all of whom were evidently exceptional at their jobs,” he told Insurance Business.
However, Pallotta said one of the differentiating factors separating him from the other worthy finalists was his extracurricular work with NIBA, sitting on the Young Professional committee.
“Undertaking these additional initiatives benefits both the individual and the broader broking community through continued advocacy,” he said. “It was imperative in getting across the line for the state award.”
Weighing in on what other young brokers could do to set themselves apart from the crowd, Pallotta said individuals had to be committed to developing themselves.
“In every aspect of life, be it sport, music, education or work, constantly striving to improve is paramount,” he said. “Getting out of your comfort zone, speaking at public events, volunteering to present internally and externally – these aspects of employment help accelerate a young professional’s career.”
