Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Megan Mills, Founder and Owner of Flanagan Mills Insurance Agency, LLC., located in Rochester, NY, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
The Flanagan Mills Insurance Agency is a Rochester NY based Independent Insurance Brokerage. We work with both individuals and small businesses to develop the best insurance portfolio to suit their unique needs.
Tell us about yourself
After a 9-year career working for a large corporation, I made the decision to open a small business. I have always had an entrepreneurial spirit, and after having my first child, I wanted to have more flexibility with my work/life balance. Almost 8 years ago now, I opened my insurance agency doors and haven't looked back. I love to work with clients on figuring out what insurance they really need. And then working with a variety of insurance carriers to decide which option is best from a pricing and product perspective.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I spent the first 5 years of my career with a large insurance carrier as an Exclusive agent. Almost 3 years ago, I decided to take the leap and became an Independent Agency. That was a very difficult decision and resulted in a major lawsuit. I am now on the other side of the lawsuit and am so glad that I made that difficult decision and came out the other side. Our agency continues to grow, and we are helping customers every day to find a great insurance option for them.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
By far, I think the hardest part is staffing. Not only attracting and retaining good people but also making strategic decisions on when to increase team members and which roles to place them in.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Fully commit - I see business owners struggle because they never fully commit to going for it. If you are going to succeed, you need to have some blind faith that everything will work out.
- Staff early and often - it is so hard to take the leap into having a staff member, but in order for you to grow, you will need support. Put people in place for the things you either don't want to do any longer or that you know you can delegate. And then let them succeed!
- Work-life balance - you can have it all if you manage your time. When you are working, be 100% to get things done. Limit texting, social media, etc., during this time. When you are home, try to be present for your family or loved ones.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://themillsagency.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flanaganmillsagency
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flanaganmillsagency/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/megan-flanagan-mills/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
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