Who owns you, cowboy?

Where things go awry is when we forget why we went independent in the first place. When we let our carriers, FMOs, regulators and even our clients own us entirely. So it’s time to start doing the right thing and escape the thundering herd being driven to market. Here’s how:

• Do not recommend high-commission products to susceptible buyers just because “everybody does it.” Always do what’s best for the client, even if it generates less revenue for “the boss.”
• Do not abandon your old clients because new clients may generate more revenue. Always uphold the commitment you made during your initial sales process to service your clients, despite costs or inconvenience.
• Do not adopt the latest selling system just because your carrier or FMO made it smell as good as a sizzling steak after a long day in the saddle. Always use what is in line with your values and complies with the license you have.
• Do not allow trail smoke (and mirrors) to obscure your product choices. Always understand for yourself the products you sell and get to know their features like the back of your hand. Base product choices solely on their merits and on how well they meet the needs of your clients.
• Do not allow anyone to steer you into putting clients into unsuitable investments. True cowboys know that the minute they let others determine their direction, they are finished.

The reason why we let others dictate our actions is because being a lone cowboy is hard. It means you have to know the difference between right and wrong … between what will please the herd today and what will get the herd back home safely tomorrow. Between what others think is best and what you know is best. Between what’s expedient and what’s suitable in every area of your business.

So whether you’re on the trail or back at the ranch, remember one thing: Nobody should own you, cowboy, but you.