When it comes to building a strong, successful agency, hiring the right leaders is everything. But too often, companies make a crucial mistake: they promote based on tenure rather than true leadership ability. Just because someone has spent years in the insurance industry doesn’t automatically make them an effective leader.
At Aspire Insurance Group, we take a different approach. We believe leadership is about more than experience—it’s about emotional intelligence, adaptability, and a deep commitment to growth. Our hiring decisions aren’t just about who has been here the longest; they’re about who has the heart and mindset to lead our team forward.
Experience Doesn’t Equal Leadership Ability
In many agencies, leadership promotions happen by default. A long-time employee does well in their role, so they’re promoted to manager or director. But that’s where things often go wrong.
The reality? The skills that make someone a great insurance producer or CSR aren’t the same skills that make a great leader. Leadership isn’t just about knowledge—it’s about guiding, inspiring, and empowering others.
At Aspire, we’ve seen firsthand that leadership potential comes in many forms. Sometimes, the best leaders are the ones who:
✔ Ask great questions and actively listen.
✔ Lift others up and foster collaboration.
✔ Adapt quickly and solve problems with a clear, level-headed approach.
These are the people who make an impact—not just because they’ve been in the industry a long time, but because they bring true leadership qualities to the table.
Emotional Intelligence & Trust Matter More Than Titles
One of the most overlooked traits in leadership is emotional intelligence. Being a great leader isn’t about being the loudest voice in the room—it’s about knowing how to connect with people, build trust, and create an environment where others can thrive.
At Aspire, we hire and promote leaders who:
✅ Understand their own strengths and weaknesses.
✅ Read between the lines and pick up on what their team needs.
✅ Lead with empathy, patience, and trust.
We’ve seen that when a leader creates psychological safety, their team is more engaged, productive, and motivated. People work harder for a leader they trust, not one they fear.
At Aspire, We Hire for ‘Culture Add,’ Not Just ‘Culture Fit’
A common hiring phrase is looking for a “culture fit”—someone who blends seamlessly into the existing team. But at Aspire, we take it a step further. We look for “culture add”—leaders who bring fresh perspectives, new ideas, and innovative thinking while still aligning with our core values.
When we bring in a new leader, we ask:
✔ How will this person enhance our culture?
✔ Do they bring skills and perspectives that challenge us to grow?
✔ Are they aligned with our core values: teamwork, innovation, raving fans, and growth?
By focusing on culture add, we ensure that every new leader makes Aspire stronger—not just by fitting in, but by helping us evolve.
The Best Leaders Inspire & Uplift
At the end of the day, the right leaders don’t just manage—they inspire, uplift, and bring out the best in those around them.
If you’re hiring or promoting within your agency, ask yourself: Are you choosing leaders based on tenure, or are you choosing people who will truly make an impact? The best agencies aren’t built by experience alone—they’re built by leaders who care, listen, and lead with heart.
At Aspire Insurance Group, that’s the standard we hold ourselves to—because when our leaders thrive, our whole team thrives.