Jason Rodriguez, CEO of Prominent Insurance Services

Member of the Agent's Committee on the Big I Diversity Council 

Anitra: Tell us a little bit about your agency, Prominent Insurance Services

Jason: Our agency Prominent Insurance Services, established in 2010, was built from the ground up with a commitment to excellence and efficiency. With a lean but highly effective team, we've specialized in servicing both business and personal lines. Our focus is not just on delivering top-notch insurance solutions but also on empowering our community. This is evident in our 'Path to Partnership' initiative, which aims to increase minority participation and provide opportunities for them to build and grow within the industry.

Anitra: As an instrumental supporter of the Big "I" Diversity Council, why do you think building an agency culture of diversity and inclusion is another important step agencies should take to become even more competitive?
 
Jason: Diversity and inclusion are more than just ethical imperatives; they are competitive advantages. A diverse team brings a multitude of perspectives, experiences, and ideas, which are crucial for innovative problem-solving and understanding a wide range of client needs. By embracing diversity, agencies can foster a more creative, dynamic, and ultimately, a more competitive business environment.

Anitra: What advice do you have for people afraid to make mistakes in their journey to diversity and inclusion?
 
Jason: The journey to diversity and inclusion is a learning process, and mistakes are a natural part of learning. It's important to approach this journey with humility and openness to feedback. Mistakes should be seen as opportunities for growth and deeper understanding. The key is to listen, learn, and continuously strive to improve.

Anitra: What are tips would you give to those on their journey to becoming more inclusive?
Jason: Firstly, conduct a thorough assessment of your current practices and culture to identify areas for improvement. Educate your team about the value of diversity and inclusion. Create a safe space for open dialogue and encourage diverse voices to share their experiences and perspectives. Finally, set clear, measurable goals for diversity and inclusion, and hold the team accountable for achieving them.

Anitra: Can you share some strategies for sourcing candidates from underrepresented communities?
 
Jason: To source candidates from underrepresented communities, partnerships with minority-focused educational institutions and professional organizations can be beneficial. Additionally, leveraging social media platforms and job boards that focus on these communities can widen your reach. It's also effective to engage in community events and career fairs that cater to diverse groups.

Anitra: What would be your tip to an agency that wants to address diversity in their hiring process but doesn't know where to start?
 
Jason: Start by understanding the demographics of your current workforce and the communities you serve. Educate your hiring team on the importance of diversity and unconscious bias. Implement policies that promote fair and unbiased recruitment practices, such as blind resume reviews. Actively seek out and create channels to reach diverse candidates and ensure your workplace culture is welcoming.

We are thrilled to feature the exceptional contributions of agency leaders who have been working to foster inclusion for traditionally underrepresented across the independent agency channel.  Agents profiled have demonstrated a commitment to advancing diversity and inclusion in the independent agency space is both inspiring and commendable. If this sounds like someone you know, nominate them. Their inspiring commitment deserves recognition, and their stories are catalysts for a more diverse and inclusive future in this space. Click here to nominate an agent.