"One thing I've always loved, even outside of work, is helping other people," says young agent Jesica Hernandez. "The opportunity to help people protect what they've worked hard for is very fulfilling."
Jesica Hernandez
Commercial Lines Producer
Winston-Salem, North Carolina
Age: 26
Go-to drink order: Aperol spritz
No. 1 item on bucket list: Travel to Italy
Favorite candy: Airheads
How did you get started in insurance?
When I was 17, after working at Subway for two years, I found myself at a crossroads contemplating a return to education or the pursuit of a long-term career. My cousin works at Alliance Insurance and encouraged me to apply for a vacancy. I was hired the same day I interviewed and started a few days before my 18th birthday.
The following June, I earned my property & casualty license. The class was quite different from what I dealt with at work and the questions clients asked, so it was helpful that I was already working in an agency while studying for it. I'm not sure I would have passed the test the first time without that experience.
What do you love about insurance?
We're always learning something new. I specialize in commercial insurance, where the unique nature of each business necessitates ongoing adaption and learning. One thing I've always loved, even outside of work, is helping other people. The opportunity to help people protect what they've worked hard for is very fulfilling.
Goals for the future?
I've been at Alliance for nearly nine years, primarily working in service with some quoting and selling every so often. As of March, I officially transferred to a producer role, making a significant milestone in my career. I'm excited to grow my book of business and aspire to be as successful as our top-performing producers.
Role model or mentor?
When I think about people that I admire as role models, our agency owner is a great human being who has a significant amount of understanding of the insurance industry. We also recently welcomed another agency into our team who sold his agency to our boss after three decades of industry experience. His insights about the evolution of the industry provide invaluable lessons. The way he presents and explains complex concepts helps us understand insurance from a different perspective.
Work-life balance?
It's hard, especially when we're in a busy time. I have a laptop that goes with me everywhere I go. I have a supportive husband who understands the demands of the job. However, I did recently go to a women's leadership conference, and something a speaker said resonated deeply with me: “You don't find work-life balance, you make it." Time with family is very important, and it's a journey I'm actively pursuing.
AnneMarie McPherson Spears is IA news editor.
