The time is now. Do you feel it?

In the vibrant world of insurance and financial services, there’s a powerful shift happening among our female members that’s reshaping the landscape in real-time today. Whether we gather virtually, attend board meetings, or connect at social events, the dynamic among our female colleagues is tangible and transformative. Over the past two years, I've witnessed inspiring evolutions within our organization and I wanted to share a glimpse of this transformative period. The impact has largely affected my life and could be a core reason my revenue double from last year. We could even call it a revolution. These revolutions stand on the foundation of social and technological changes and we are standing on the front lines here watching the changes happen and creating new opportunities because of it.

It begins with conversations sparked at WIFS National and Chapter events, where stories are shared and connections are forged. What starts as a simple exchange often ignites a journey of growth, as women across states come together, supporting each other through texts, calls, and even business partnerships.

In my role as Phoenix President for the 2023-2024 term, I’ve seen firsthand how those who embrace our community and culture take it to heart, making it their own. However, I didn’t stop at the chapter level, my friendships have gone farther into multiple chapters to close knit friendships and business mindsets have been formed. I went seeking and found other like-minded individuals that share the same passions for growth and creation resulting in loving what we do while earning more revenue. They help me and I help them. It is reciprocating and very much magnetic.

Following our last national conference, I had the privilege of delving into research for our Next-Gen panel. What I discovered were women in their late 20s and early 30s, observing, absorbing, and then boldly integrating newfound insights into their personal and professional lives. They gave us a glimmer of what the younger minds need to partner with the wisdom of where we have been.

From that time frame, masterminds were formed, study groups were scheduled and members have banded together via social channels, additional zoom calls and meeting up in different cities when we could align time between business and family.

Why is there so much change?

The industry is evolving—not solely for the reasons WIFS National initially united, but in response to the seismic changes in financial services. Examples of this at a higher level are that Broker Dealers and RIAs are changing ownership, leadership is changing altering roles in corporate America that our sister employ. Venture capitalists have swooped in changing the landscape. Our members are talking about what isn’t working and what is. They are making plans.

Our members have not only adapted but thrived, forming, crafting innovative business plans, and forging strategic partnerships that redefine success on their terms. Anyone can have access to this if you integrate, find a friend and start talking.

What lies ahead promises to be nothing short of revolutionary. The coming wave of changes in industry and tech invites each of you to participate, should you choose to seize the opportunity. I can now count on two hands how many fellow sisters have built businesses together, turning their dreams into reality through collaboration and action. They are brainstorming and putting their dreams into action. I am just one person so imagine how many other ideas are being created within our membership base.

Together within our WIFS communities, we are redefining what it means to excel in insurance and financial services, driven by collaboration, innovation, and the unwavering determination of our female leaders. Are you needing that push, to be the next iteration of YOU?

If you haven’t personally invested to immerse yourself completely into your WIFS membership, you can always get started. Lean in and be part of change.

Here are a few roadmaps to continued success as I see it:

• Go to National Conference – Attend and get in the room, exchange information and network. Walk away with as many contacts as possible and set up times to meet at a later date.
• Watch National Webinars- Keep learning and connect with everyone in the virtual room. Schedule your educational commitments 6-months out.
• Join a Task Force:
  • The Road to 100 – Kate Beck and others Portland are building a framework to listen to members to help with growth today. Ask to join their meetings.
  • The Member-At-Large Task Force – Mindy Helfrich is spearheading a virtual place where you can collaborate from anywhere!
  • Mentor and Mentee – Mentors can change lives and give objective encouragement. Sign up and/or be coached. Don’t forget to Reciprocate where you can!
  • Start a Mastermind -  Meet 10-20 new members from other chapters and share business ideas. Set quarterly meetings and form your own Study Group.

It is more important than ever to be a part of this organization and to bring many friends with you.

Executives and Leaders would love to introduce you to those that are moving and shaking today. Many of my WIFS sisters in this community have taken large leaps in the last 24-months and developed their own businesses lines and concepts and are flourishing. Their energy is magnetic and their financial success reflects this too.

Start with conference and align with the growth mindset.

Join us as we write the next chapter—a chapter where empowerment, solidarity, and transformation pave the way for a brighter future in our industry. Find your next Strategic Partner in life or business within this community. Don’t just create motion, Take Action. Your next year is going to be amazing.

By: Amber Stitt