Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Kassie Kennaugh. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Kassie , appreciate you joining us today. Can you talk to us about a risk you’ve taken – walk us through the story?
The most significant leap I’ve ever made was acquiring the agency I presently own. Growing up in the Midwest, we were an average family, living from paycheck to paycheck. We hunted for our meals, supplemented by the food pantry and my grandmother’s cooking. Though we were financially constrained, my parents toiled tirelessly. When I was around 10, they embarked on their own business venture, a struggle I witnessed daily as they fought to keep it afloat. The most vivid memory I have is the day they decided to close shop because it couldn’t sustain us. Despite their efforts to shield us, my siblings and I felt the impact keenly. Instead of following their path, I opted for a military career.
Fast forward over 20 years, I found myself working under a mentor who recognized my potential. For two years, he nurtured and challenged me, shaping me into what I thought was the best “office manager” I could be, indefinitely. One day, he sat me down and questioned my motives: “Why settle for this role? What truly ignites your passion?” I confessed my desire to lead and carve my own path, rather than lining someone else’s pockets. With a chuckle, he declared it was time to seize that opportunity. Unsure and fearful of reliving my parents’ struggles, I deliberated. Eventually, I realized that not taking a chance on myself would be the greatest regret. So, on March 1st, 2022, I took the plunge, investing thousands of dollars into what is now a flourishing agency.
Since our inception, we’ve transformed lives, reshaping perceptions and education about insurance. It’s more than a transaction; it’s a lifelong partnership. Our growth has been exponential, over 400% in just two years! All because I dared to bet on myself, charting a different course from my parents. Our stories may have begun similarly, but they’re now distinctly ours.
Kassie , love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
My journey into the insurance industry has been one of personal evolution, marked by unexpected turns. Originating from modest beginnings in the military, my aspiration was to serve as a first responder. However, the role of motherhood took precedence, prompting me to consider firefighting while exploring insurance opportunities on the side, particularly in assisting veterans transition into civilian work. Serendipity intervened when a mentor recognized my potential and steered me towards entrepreneurship. Acquiring the agency I now lead required a leap of faith, but it’s a decision I’ve never looked back on. It has taken countless hours, late nights, many weekends to prove to the customers that we are not just a typical agency, Our agency offers more than mere insurance; we cultivate enduring relationships with our clients, providing tailored services and comprehensive coverage. What distinguishes us is our unwavering dedication to enriching lives and reshaping perceptions of insurance. Our remarkable growth, surpassing 400% in just two years, speaks volumes about the impact we’ve made. I take immense pride in the positive transformations we’ve facilitated and the trust our clients bestow upon us. Prospective clients and followers should understand that we’re not merely another agency; we’re steadfast in our mission to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives and safeguard their peace of mind.
Any insights you can share with us about how you built up your social media presence?
Certainly! Our journey in building our social media audience began by partnering with a locally-owned company specializing in social media management. Their expertise helped us establish a solid foundation and navigate the complexities of online engagement. One of our key strategies was to center our branding around our community involvement. We highlighted our ties to the local area, showcasing our commitment to supporting the community through various initiatives, especially charity work. A significant focus was on aiding the families of first responders, as we deeply empathize with their challenges and sacrifices. To further strengthen our connection with this community, we made a conscious decision to hire spouses of first responders, recognizing the unique perspective and understanding they bring to our team. This approach not only enhanced our social media presence but also fostered genuine connections with our audience, building trust and loyalty over time.
For those just starting to build their social media presence, I would emphasize the importance of authenticity and community engagement. Share genuine stories and experiences that resonate with your audience, and actively participate in conversations relevant to your industry or niche. Consistency is key, so maintain a regular posting schedule and interact with your followers consistently. Additionally, don’t overlook the power of partnerships and collaborations, whether with local businesses or influencers who align with your brand values. Finally, prioritize giving back to your community and demonstrating your commitment to making a positive impact. This not only builds goodwill but also attracts like-minded individuals who share your values and are likely to become loyal followers and customers.
Do you have any insights you can share related to maintaining high team morale?
! One of the most effective strategies for managing a team and maintaining high morale is to foster a culture of collaboration and appreciation. Recognizing the unique strengths and contributions of each team member is essential. Encourage open communication and feedback, ensuring that everyone feels heard and valued. Regular team meetings and one-on-one check-ins can provide opportunities to address any concerns or challenges and celebrate achievements.
Additionally, promoting a sense of purpose and alignment with the company’s values can boost morale. Highlighting the impact of the team’s work, such as the positive outcomes of community involvement or the meaningful relationships built with clients, can instill a sense of pride and motivation.
Creating opportunities for professional development and growth is another crucial aspect of team management. Offer training programs, mentorship opportunities, and avenues for career advancement to empower team members and demonstrate your investment in their success.
Finally, lead by example by embodying the values and behaviors you wish to see in your team. Show appreciation for their efforts, acknowledge their accomplishments publicly, and provide support during challenging times. By fostering a supportive and inclusive environment where team members feel valued, respected, and motivated, you can cultivate high morale and a cohesive, high-performing team.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @anthempartners
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/allstate.ofanthem
- Linkedin: Kassie Kennaugh
Image Credits
They are all my photos