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In this issue:
Industry News Update
PIA to Ohio House Committee: Opposing Optional Federal Charter is the Right Move
PIA Symposium: Tackling the Talent Shortage for the Industry's Future
ODI Moving to New Location in May
New Training Requirements for Agents Selling Long-Term Care Insurance
PIA Workers' Comp Group Rating Program Spring Meetings Coming to West Chester, Gahanna and Boardman
IMPACT Contributions Needed to Support Candidates
Nominate Your Choice for Outstanding Customer Service Representative of the Year
New CIC and CISR Referral Program Can Earn You a Free Class
Save the Date for This Year's Agency Management and Profitability Conference
Featured Benefits
Save on a One-Year Subscription with ISOnet
Collection Service
Agency Automation Assistance
Sircon Services
Build or Upgrade Your Agency Web Site
Education Update
E&O Schedule
Reality CE Schedule
CISR Schedule
CIC Schedule
Pre-Licensing Classes
Lunch 'n' Learn Schedule
Industry News Update
PIA to Ohio House Committee: Opposing Optional Federal Charter is the Right Move
John Koetz, past-president and long-time PIA member appeared before the House Insurance Committee this week to support House Concurrent Resolution 34, which formally opposes Optional Federal Charter legislation.
The resolution is sponsored by Rep. Bill Batchelder (R-Medina). Click here to read the complete press release.
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PIA Symposium: Tackling the Talent Shortage for the Industry’s Future
On a recent carrier visit, PIA Company Relations Committee members learned that one insurance company anticipates the need to fill up to 500 mid-level management positions in the next few years. According to PIA research, the average age of agency principals in our membership is 57 or older—showing an approaching need for perpetuation plans to go into action. Even the Ohio Department of Insurance is feeling the crunch. Director Hudson commented last year that a large percentage of ODI’s experienced staff is set to retire within just a few years.
All this is happening at a time when technology and generational changes are re-inventing the way most work is done. Expectations of convenience and instant results are driving many insurance consumers to online research and 24-hour electronic access to information. At the same time, young professionals entering the work force have a brand new way of communicating, as well as a few expectations of their own about work environments and office equipment.
PIA is responding with an upcoming symposium for various industry, academic and government leaders. We’re going to showcase the staffing shortage/talent management issue and bring leaders to the table to discuss how everyone has a responsibility to work together for innovative solutions that will keep Ohio’s fourth largest industry going strong.
The goal of the PIA Symposium on April 30 is to bring leaders together for a meaningful discussion on what we can do to address our shared staffing and perpetuation concerns. We hope to then form a workgroup that will ultimately develop a few ideas for initiatives to attract, train and retain insurance industry professionals. We’ve invited a small group of leaders, including ODI Director Hudson, various insurance carrier CEOs and deans from several Ohio universities.
We want your input to help build a better discussion. If you were sitting at the table with CEOs, government leaders or university deans to discuss how they can help the insurance industry find and keep talented workers—what would you ask them to do? If you have ideas, PIA will share your thoughts during the symposium. Contact Dan Snouffer, PIA director of company and industry relations at dan@ohiopia.com or (800) 555-1742.
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ODI Moving to New Location in May
The Ohio Department of Insurance (ODI) will be relocating to the newly-renovated Lazarus building in downtown Columbus and will begin operations in there new facility Monday, May 12. The move from the 2100 Stella Court location will begin at close of business Thursday, May 8. ODI will have limited operations Friday, May 9, and will not be accepting walk-in customers that day. However, the consumer, fraud and OSHIIP hotlines will remain open. Those who wish to reach department staff can do so by calling ODI’s switchboard at (614) 644-2475. Although this may seem like a small inconvenience, by closing their office for one business day and completing the move quickly, ODI will save tax payers dollars in the end.
ODI’s new address will be 50 West Town Street, Third Floor – Suite 300, Columbus, OH 43215.
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New Training Requirements for Agents Selling Long-Term Care Insurance
Effective Sept. 1, 2008, Ohio insurance agents are prohibited from selling long-term care insurance unless they are authorized for accident and health or life, and has completed a one-time training course. In addition, agents are required to complete ongoing training to remain compliant. The training requirements are explained in Bulletin 2008-2.
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PIA Workers' Comp Group Rating Program Spring Meetings Coming to West Chester, Gahanna and Boardman
It's fun to take risks sometimes, but can your commercial clients afford to take risks with their workers' compensation?
Don't let your clients roll the dice with their workers' comp. They already trust you with their business' insurance, so it should be a natural fit for you to manage their risk with workers' comp insurance, too. This program can round out and retain your existing accounts - and it can help you write new business, too! PIA's group rating program has already saved Ohio employers more than $815 million through professional insurance agents like you.
To learn more about how you can start marketing PIA's Workers' Comp Group Rating Program, click here for a list of remaining spring meeting dates and locations. If you are already using PIA's program, you will RECEIVE YOUR REFERRAL CHECK at the spring meeting.
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IMPACT Contributions Needed to Support Candidates Who Can Help Ohio's 
Economy
This year, in addition to the presidential race and all 18 of Ohio’s congressional districts, Ohioans will be electing a multitude of candidates for positions within the state. The Ohio Supreme Court, currently entirely Republican, has two seats up on the ballot this year. At the Statehouse, all 99 Ohio House of Representative seats are up for re-election, along with 16 of the State Senate’s seats.
The magnitude of elections this year and the issues at stake increase the demands of our political action committee; especially given the plausibility that the outcomes of these elections can once again alter the balance of political power in Ohio. In addition, it is especially crucial that PIA offers financial support to candidates who can help improve Ohio’s economy – a necessary ingredient for agency growth to transpire and flourish.
By contributing to IMPACT, PIA members can help support the election of sensible leaders who understand insurance and the issues facing independent agents. Our goal is to raise more than $25,000. To date, $6,820 has been raised. Is your name on our contributors list? To view a current list of 2008 contributors, click here.
Your IMPACT contribution is your influence toward a better business climate in Ohio - and a stronger foundation for you to serve your clients’ insurance needs. If you would like to contribute to IMPACT, mail a personal check to PIA, made payable to IMPACT, or call Carolyn Mangas at (800) 555-1742 to make your contribution over the phone. Please remember that corporate contributions are prohibited by law.
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Nominate Your Choice for Outstanding Customer Service Representative of the Year
The National Alliance is now accepting nominations for the 2008 Outstanding Customer Service Representative of the Year award. This award honors the CSR who has demonstrated the highest level of personal and professional achievement during the past 12 months. Download the brochure for more information and the nomination form. Please fax this form to Dee Dee Edwards at (614) 552-0115 or send it to her via e-mail at dedwards@ohiopia.com.
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New CIC and CISR Referral Program Can Earn You a Free Class
If you’re already pursuing or have earned the CIC and/or CISR designation through PIA, then you know about the many advantages you receive – including practical, useful knowledge and the added value a designation can bring to your business or employer. A CIC or CISR designation allows you to truly excel in your insurance career.
If you’re willing to share your experience with others and encourage them to participate in your program, PIA will reward your efforts.
Here’s how it works:
For every four people you refer, you will be rewarded with one complimentary module or course ($163 value for a CISR course/$390 value for a CIC module).
The four referrals must be “valid” in order to qualify for the reward. A “valid” referral is an individual who is new to the CIC or CISR program or returning to the program after an absence of at least three calendar years. Additionally, the referred person must complete one full module or course. PIA will notify you when you have obtained four valid referrals and are eligible for your reward.
Referral forms will be available at all PIA of Ohio CIC and CISR courses and on PIA’s Web site – or click here to refer someone today!
For more information or questions, please contact Dee Dee Edwards at (800) 555-1742.
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Save the Date for This Year's Agency Management and Profitability Conferen
ce
The 2008 Agency Management and Profitability Conference (AMPC) will be held October 2-3 at the Columbus Marriott Northwest. Don't miss this opportunity to network with colleagues, participate in top-notch education seminars, attend the Annual Business Meeting and Awards Ceremony--and more! This year's AMPC presenters include: Greg Arnold of Advanced Automation, Inc., Nancy Flynn of The ePolicy Institute and Edwin (Ed) L. Lamont, CIC, CRM of Lamont Consulting Group, Inc.
Exhibit Hall is already sold out! To view a list of this year's upcoming 2008 Marketplace Exhibitors, click here. To request sponsorship and advertising information, e-mail melody@ohiopia.com.
Stay posted for more AMPC news as it becomes available.
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Featured Benefits
Save on a One-Year Subscription with ISOnet
ISOnet gives you real-time access to ISO's 25,000-page Commercial Lines Manual, including state and multi-state rules, loss costs and forms for all ISO commercial lines of business, plus the classification table, rating plans and ISO community classifications. You'll also have access to ISO's Personal Lines Manual.
You can save on a one-year subscription. Your price as a PIA member is only $420 annually (regular price for service is $520 annually).
For more information about this product or to purchase this product, call Yveline Thomas, ISO Sales Specialist, at (888) 778-4102, ext. 4821.
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Collection Service
I.C. System offers a variety of collection programs, ranging from an economical series of collection letters that return 100 percent of collected monies to you, to a comprehensive approach using mail, telephone and credit reporting. As a PIA of Ohio member, you are eligible for an additional 10 percent in I.C. System products and/or services. To put I.C. System to work for you, call (800) 279-3511 and identify yourself as a member of PIA of Ohio.
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Agency Automation Assistance
You’re too busy to worry about automation headaches, but you know you have to integrate your system with your carriers’ to stay competitive! PIA offers free technical support from an expert with practical agency experience. He will give you unbiased answers to help you evaluate your options, plan for a system update, purchase new software and understand automation proposals and contract terms. Automation has never been easier. For more information, call PIA’s Membership Team at (800) 555-1742.
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Sircon Services
By using Sircon for all your agency licensing needs, you can save up to 70 percent over your current costs. Sircon will help you with license applications for resident and non-resident producers and agencies, real-time producer letters of certification, producer license renewal requests, producer name and address changes, continuing education transcripts, finding your license number and checking your status with a state.
PIA members receive a 15 percent discount on all Sircon's licensing and compliance services. Learn more about Sircon's Producer Workbench and get started today!
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Build or Upgrade Your Agency Web Site
Are you looking to improve your online customer service ability? Whether you need to create a brand new Web site or upgrade to a more functional site, your PIA membership can help! PIA has partnered with Websites4insurance.com to offer you a low-cost opportunity to build or upgrade your agency Web site. Go to www.websites4pia.com to see how this Web site builder allows you to have a professional insurance agency Web site just by pointing and clicking. It only takes a few minutes. Visit www.websites4pia.com today!
These benefits are offered through The Ohio PIA Service Corporation, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Professional Insurance Agents Association of Ohio, Inc.
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Education Update
Upcoming E&O Classes
Using Positive Practices to Minimize Claims
Errors and omissions (E&O) is probably the greatest exposure to loss that agencies face today. It is critical that you know the risks you write and to make sure the correct coverage is in place. After all, writing the correct coverage will help you avoid E&O claims.
This seminar will teach you how to uncover and handle E&O loss exposures in today’s technical and fast-paced business environment.
About the instructor:
Ralph Guarasci, CIC, will lead this outstanding class. Ralph is a favorite instructor amongst students of PIA classes. Ralph earned PIA’s Educator of the Year award in 2005.
Toledo
May 20
Registration Fee: $69 for members/$79 for non-members
CE Credit: Four hours (exam not required for CE credit)
Level: Intermediate-level course
To register online, click on the class date above.
To download a registration form, click here.
This seminar is sponsored by Utica Mutual Insurance Company.
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Upcoming Reality CE Class
NFIP Flood Insurance Seminar
The Ohio Department of Insurance (ODI), in its Jan. 1, 2007 bulletin, announced that all property and casualty licensed agents in Ohio who sell flood insurance are now required to attend a one-time NFIP course. This course must meet the minimum flood insurance training requirements for insurance agents as set forth in Section 207 of the Flood Insurance Reform Act of 2004.
PIA is offering an NFIP-approved flood seminar to fulfill this requirement for agents.
This is a one-time requirement by the NFIP for agents who sell flood insurance in Ohio.
Cleveland
May 8
Registration Fee: $59 for members/$69 for non-members
CE Credit: Three hours (exam not required for CE credit)
Level: Intermediate-level course
To register online, click on the class date above.
To download a registration form, click here.
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Upcoming CISR Classes
Columbus
Dynamics of Service
May 1
Cincinnati
Commercial Property
May 6
Cleveland
Agency Operations*
May 13
Toledo
Commercial Casualty
May 22
Cincinnati
Personal Residential
June 3
Columbus
Agency Operations*
June 5
Registration Fee: $155 per person (add $8 if you need OH CE)
CE Credit: Eight hours for each class (exam not required for CE credit)
Level: Intermediate-level course
*Approved for E&O credit. Contact PIA at (800) 555-1742 for details.
To register online, click on the class date above.
To download a registration form, click here.
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Upcoming CIC Institutes
Columbus
Commercial Casualty
May 14-16
Cleveland
Graduate Seminar*
June 18-20
Registration Fee: $390 for regular institutes, $395 for graduate institutes (add $20 if you need OH CE)
CE Credit: 20 hours for each institute (exam not required for CE credit)
Level: Advanced-level course
*James K. Ruble Graduate Seminars are for CIC designation holders only.
To register online, click on the class date above.
To download a registration form, click here.
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Upcoming Pre-Licensing Classes
Columbus
June 12-14 and June 19-21
Registration Fee: $249 per PIA member/$274 per non-member
CE Credit: There is no CE credit for agent licensing classes
Level: Introductory-level course
To register online, click on the class date above.
To download a registration form, click here.
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Upcoming Lunch 'n' Learn Classes
PIA's Lunch 'n' Learn programs bring practical, "must-know" topics right into your agency. Agency staff will learn information targeted to help them perform their jobs better - all in under an hour (starting at noon), without leaving the office.
Register for Lunch 'n' Learn and, using a speaker phone, you can offer this learning opportunity to multiple staff at once - for one price - no matter how many people participate. Just register for the program, provide the e-mail address of the primary participant and let PIA do the rest!
Homeowners' Policy Beyond the Basics: Subtleties, Nuances, Etc.
May 13
D&O Insurance – What’s All the Fuss?
May 29
Coinsurance and Valuation Clause
June 17
Approximate start time: Noon; duration approx. 45 minutes - 1 hour
Place: Your conference room/office
Participants will need: Internet e-mail access to receive/view support materials; a telephone (or speaker phone if multiple participants)
Registration fees per phone dialing in: Live teleconference only: $49 members/$69 non-members; Live teleconference with multimedia CD reproduction of program: $65 members/$95 non-members
For more information about the classes above or to register, click here.
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