Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Alexis Busse. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Alexis, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Let’s go back in time to when you were an intern or apprentice – what’s an interesting story you can share from that stage of your career?

During my Junior year in college, I accepted a position that marked my very first foray into the professional realm: an internship. Specifically, the role of a marketing intern at Doperalski State Farm. It is worth noting that this establishment was in its nascent stages, having freshly unveiled its operations during the time of my internship. The entirety of this experience proved to be nothing short of extraordinary, as it unfurled amidst a backdrop characterized by simultaneous growth and development for both the Owner, the esteemed Mike Doperalski, and myself. Together, we confronted various hurdles head-on, thereby solidifying our acumen and forging ahead triumphantly.

When contemplating the notion of internships, a rather clichéd image often springs to mind—a college student relegated to the mundane tasks of fetching coffee and running errands for corporate executives, while not gaining any substantial knowledge or expertise in return. However, my personal encounter with the internship phenomenon was starkly contrasting. Rather than being subjected to menial errands, I was afforded the invaluable opportunity to cultivate and refine my prowess in client engagement, thereby honing my ability to communicate with utmost professionalism. Moreover, this experience proved instrumental in expanding my professional network, as I established connections and fostered relationships that have proven to be invaluable throughout my journey.

Engaging in the intricate workings of the insurance industry, I gained profound insights into its ebbs and flows, unearthing a profound appreciation for the rewards it can bestow upon those who possess unwavering determination and resilience. It soon became apparent that the world of insurance demanded an unwavering commitment and tenacity, thereby weeding out those lacking in fortitude. Though initially skeptical of pursuing a career in sales during my time as an intern, I underwent a transformative evolution. The sheer joy I derived from gracing the office each day and liaising with clients instilled within me an ardent passion for the realm of sales. Consequently, fast forward to the present, precisely two years later, and I find myself assuming the distinguished mantle of a Sales Agent in the revered Medicare and Retirement department at UnitedHealth Group.

Reflecting upon the profound impact of my first internship experience, I am compelled to attribute my present position and subsequent success to the formative guidance and unwavering support of Mike Doperalski. Like a sponge, I voraciously absorbed every morsel of knowledge that he so graciously imparted, recognizing the instrumental role he played in shaping my trajectory. Thus, I wholeheartedly assert that, without the indispensable assistance, invaluable advice, and unwavering encouragement from the indomitable Mike Doperalski, my current achievements and position within the industry would remain nothing more than distant aspirations.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

The trajectory of my educational aspirations was uniquely shaped by the absence of a Bachelor’s degree in both my mother’s and father’s repertoire, thus instilling within me an unwavering determination to toil tirelessly in pursuit of my cherished collegiate dreams. As an individual innately inclined towards the realms of creativity, novelty, and interpersonal connections, I found myself grappling with the notion of whether a formal degree would genuinely align with my authentic self. In the earlier stages of my formative years, my aspirations predominantly revolved around assuming the role of a Beauty Guru on the revered platform of YouTube. However, as the sands of time trickled through the hourglass of life, I felt an innate compulsion to challenge myself intellectually and foster a more comprehensive educational foundation.

Being an individual brimming with creativity, coupled with an inherent affinity for forging meaningful connections with diverse individuals, it was only natural that the vast expanse of possibilities associated with a degree in Marketing held an irresistible allure. The breadth of opportunities inherent in the marketing domain beckoned me forth, as I yearned to embark upon a professional journey that would embrace my creative proclivities while fostering dynamic interactions with people from all walks of life. Thus, during my Junior year of college, I embarked upon a transformative odyssey, immersing myself in the realm of Sales Training. It was during this pivotal juncture that my heart was truly captivated by the enigmatic world of sales, its vast horizons of possibilities unfurling before me like an irresistible siren’s call.

Driven by an innate desire to be of service to others and constantly push the boundaries of my own personal growth, I elected to chart a course along the path of sales. The realm of sales, with its inherent capacity to facilitate impactful connections and catalyze positive change, resonated deeply with my passionate and tenacious spirit. Armed with an unwavering commitment to attaining excellence and an unyielding resolve to accomplish each task with unparalleled proficiency, I take immense pride in the remarkable strides I have undertaken over the course of my undergraduate journey spanning four years. Moreover, the invaluable opportunities presented by engaging in transformative internship experiences have further propelled my growth, broadening my skill set and imbuing me with an acute awareness of the boundless potential that awaits me in the world of sales.

As I prepare to embark upon the threshold of the professional realm, my heart is brimming with eager anticipation, fueled by an unwavering enthusiasm to embrace the vast possibilities that lie before me. It is with fervor and a resolute spirit that I step forth into the dynamic realm of sales, ready to stretch the limits of my capabilities and venture into uncharted territories of personal and professional achievement. The road ahead is ripe with promise, and I embrace it wholeheartedly, with an unwavering commitment to surpass my own expectations and unravel new dimensions of growth that lie just beyond the horizon.

What’s been the most effective strategy for growing your clientele?

The most effective strategy I have employed in growing my network lies in the power of authentic connection and personalized experiences. Understanding my target audience on a profound level has been paramount in forging meaningful relationships and establishing a sense of trust and rapport.

Rather than approaching client acquisition with a transactional mindset, I prioritize fostering genuine connections by taking the time to deeply understand the needs, aspirations, and pain points of my prospective clients. Through extensive research and empathetic listening, I gain valuable insights into their unique circumstances, allowing me to tailor my approach and provide customized solutions that resonate on a deeper level.

Moreover, I invest in building long-term relationships by going beyond the confines of traditional sales interactions. I strive to be a true partner and advocate for my clients, offering ongoing support and guidance even after the initial transaction. This commitment to their success engenders loyalty and referrals, as they appreciate the authenticity and dedication I bring to the table.

Furthermore, I actively seek out networking opportunities, both online and offline, to expand my reach and establish connections with industry professionals and potential collaborators. By engaging in meaningful conversations and offering value to others, I position myself as a trusted resource and an authority in my field.

Ultimately, the most effective strategy for growing my network lies in fostering genuine connections, providing personalized experiences, and continuously delivering exceptional value. By prioritizing authenticity, empathy, and ongoing support, I have witnessed a remarkable increase in client acquisition and retention, paving the way for sustained growth and long-term success.

What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?

The experiences and connections I cultivated during my tenure as an intern at State Farm and through my participation in university classes have played instrumental roles in building my reputation within the market. By immersing myself in the dynamic environment of State Farm, I had the opportunity to engage with professionals in the industry, learn from their expertise, and showcase my own capabilities. This exposure allowed me to establish a strong foundation and gain firsthand experience in the intricacies of the insurance realm, thereby bolstering my credibility.

Furthermore, my participation in university classes provided me with a platform to interact with peers who shared a similar passion for the field. Collaborating on projects, exchanging ideas, and engaging in intellectual discourse allowed me to broaden my perspectives and refine my knowledge base. This collaborative environment also presented invaluable opportunities to forge connections with like-minded individuals, many of whom have gone on to become industry professionals themselves.

Through these experiences, I was able to build a reputation for being diligent, proactive, and eager to learn. By consistently demonstrating a strong work ethic and a genuine enthusiasm for the field, I earned the respect and admiration of both my peers and mentors. These connections and the positive impression I made during my internship and university classes have translated into a strong professional network that continues to support and advocate for me within the market.

Ultimately, the combination of practical experience gained during my State Farm internship and the relationships nurtured through university classes has played a pivotal role in building my reputation within the market. These experiences have allowed me to demonstrate my skills, expand my knowledge, and establish connections that have served as pillars of support throughout my professional journey.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexisgracebusse/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexisbusse/

Image Credits
The graduation photo was taken by Jenna Olson. Photo 2 was taken by Autumn Busse