The BRIDGE Vol 1 2019 | President's Corner with Bob Tisdale
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The Importance of Education
Very early in my career, I had a conversation with my boss about my future. I was young and keen with my work, but he imparted the most valuable piece of advice I ever received: “The best way to move forward in your career is by furthering your education.” The next day I signed up for Principals and Practices of Insurance through the Insurance Institute. This foundational course in what is today called the Chartered Insurance Professional (CIP) designation was an eye opener. In the coming months, I doubled up (and sometimes tripled) my course load and received my designation in less than 2 years.
I immediately began to see the benefits. I was promoted in the organization and recognized for being an educated insurance professional. I was hooked so I didn’t stop, and a number of designations and other educational accomplishments ensued.
I won’t bore you with a regurgitation of my resume. I want to share my passionate support of continuing education, and the tremendous benefits it can have for anyone in our industry.
In 2015, the Insurance Institute of Canada released a research paper on the CIP designation, and how it can “Create Value for Employers and Employees”. The study revealed some compelling facts:
- Those who hold a CIP earn an average of $8,000 more than those with similar experience but who do not hold the designation
- 77% of employers felt that employees with their CIP offer a higher quality of service
- The CIP program is a key part of the school-to-work transition for insurance professionals
- Employers surveyed agreed that the CIP is highly beneficial for all employees, including brokers
Most managers and mentors speak to employees about their individual development – what they can do at work to further their career through training, on-the-job experience and good performance. I believe one of the most important elements to include in these conversations is how continuous learning can bolster their professionalism and elevate their career. Be it through taking courses specific to their profession, attending seminars on industry topics, or pursuing professional designations, degrees or diploma’s – each will impart knowledge and insight that are enriching.
Our organization fully supports continuing education for our staff. We pay for their courses, we provide paid time off to study and take exams, and reward achievements monetarily. Many employers offer similar incentives. We don’t view these as expenses – they are investments. Investing in staff creates engagement and loyalty and ultimately, as the Institute’s study suggests, creates better employees who offer high quality service and work. I encourage you to examine your company’s approach to supporting your staffs’ learning. I promise you the return on investment is significant.
After over 40 years in the industry, and literally hundreds of courses, my quest for learning has never ceased. I challenge everyone to look for new ways to learn, and never stop your journey. Expanding your knowledge in any capacity will only result in great accomplishment and success. I have always strongly believed that education is the mortar that binds together the bricks of experience.