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The Independent Adjuster Podcast (IA Path)
Ready to stop gambling with your career and start winning?
The Independent Adjuster Podcast is where Pathfinders like you find clarity, take action, and escape the traditional grind of the adjuster industry.
Host Chris Stanley redefines success with the EXP Free Path, teaching you how to think differently, act boldly, and claim your future without waiting for luck or experience. It’s time to build a career that works for you, one episode at a time.
The Independent Adjuster Podcast (IA Path)
IA Playbook Pt 11 - Step 6: Networking (Audiobook)
Connecting effectively through networking is essential for success as an independent adjuster. Visibility and relationship-building are important in transitioning from a new professional to a respected member of the industry.
• Understanding the importance of networking for new adjusters
• Building a polished online presence with platforms like LinkedIn
• Creating and nurturing genuine relationships in the industry
Start building connections today and watch as opportunities begin to find you.
Step six begin networking. Networking is the lifeblood of the independent adjusting industry. For new adjusters, breaking into the field can feel like trying to crash a party without an invitation. But what if the key wasn't waiting for an invite but confidently walking through the door because everyone knows you belong? The door because everyone knows you belong. That's the power of networking creating visibility and building relationships while transforming opportunities into tangible success. When you first start, you'll say yes to any opportunity just to survive. You'll hustle, reach out to anyone and everyone and take work. Others won't. But as your networking efforts compound and your business gains momentum, everything changes. You'll move from saying yes to survive to saying no to thrive. A strong network of people who know, like and trust you will bring opportunities to your door even while you sleep. This chapter is going to show you how to build a professional presence, connect with the right people and leverage tools like LinkedIn to amplify your efforts. With real-world insights and actionable steps, you'll see why networking isn't just helpful, it is a must. Networking turns preparation into opportunity. You've done the work. You've earned your certifications, polished your resume and learned the basics of adjusting. Now networking is the bridge between that preparation and your opportunity.
Speaker 1:Our most successful IAs all share one trait They've mastered the art of networking. Whether it's reaching out to firms, connecting with peers or utilizing IAPAS, community and other online platforms, they stand out because they make themselves known. Networking doesn't just open doors, but it ensures people remember you when those doors swing open. Networking builds visibility and trust. The people who succeed in this industry aren't just qualified, they're also connected. It's not just about who you know, but who you're getting to know and who believes in your ability to deliver. Consistent networking turns one small opportunity into exponential growth over time. So here's a key takeaway when our graduates excel, they aren't just following the EXP-free roadmap, but they are doing that, but they're also building connections and staying visible. Without networking, their results wouldn't be as impactful, no matter how well-trained they are.
Speaker 1:Build a professional online presence. Your online profiles are often your first impression, so make them count. When IA firms receive your application, they don't just review your resume, they look you up online. A polished, professional LinkedIn profile can make the difference between a callback and being overlooked. Think of your LinkedIn profile as your digital storefront. When set up correctly, it works 24-7 to build your credibility and attract opportunities.
Speaker 1:How to optimize your LinkedIn profile Headline. Use keywords that highlight your certifications and readiness. Example licensed insurance adjuster. Certified in auto damage by IPath Certifications. Borrow credibility by prominently listing IPath credentials or other industry-recognized trainings. Engage Share posts about your journey, for example, excited to announce I'm certified and auto damaged through IAPath and ready to help IA firms handle claims Professionalism matters.
Speaker 1:Make sure your profile, photo descriptions and language reflect your role as a reliable, trustworthy professional. Here's some more tips for visibility Set up job alerts on job boards like LinkedIn, indeed or ZipRecruiter to ensure you're notified of new opportunities. Don't only apply through the job board, but also personally connect via LinkedIn with hiring managers and recruiters for that company. Connect with IA firms, industry leaders and recruiters through these platforms. Share updates about your progress and celebrate milestones to stay on their radar.
Speaker 1:Many of my closest friendships have started through networking as an IA. These relationships go way beyond professional benefits and provide support and camaraderie from people who truly understand what you're going through in this industry. Having someone to help you navigate the industry can feel like a cool drink of water in the desert. So here's a key takeaway A professional LinkedIn profile isn't optional. It's your online resume and tool for visibility. Firms trust what they see, so make it count.
Speaker 1:Build real relationships that open doors. While your online presence is important, networking isn't just digital, it's personal. The best opportunities often come from real conversations and genuine connections. When you're reaching out to industry professionals, avoid being transactional. Instead, focus on creating relationships by showing genuine interest in their work and offering value in return. How to build relationships? Personalized outreach when connecting on LinkedIn, skip the generic let's connect and craft a thoughtful message, something along the lines of hi Linda, I admire your work in SCA claims and would love to connect and learn more about your journey in adjusting. Then engage authentically, comment on their posts, ask insightful questions and share your thoughts. Networking, whether with a firm or a person, is about giving before receiving.
Speaker 1:Industry communities Join I-specific groups on LinkedIn, facebook, etc. And actively participate in the discussions. Relationships built in these groups can lead to new opportunities. Just beware of the toxic groups. If people are giving negative information and aren't being helpful, run away. Some veterans don't want new people in the industry because you'll become their competition and they'll voice their frustrations to scare you away.
Speaker 1:Attend industry conferences. The NACA Adjuster Conference is a great place to make in-person connections, friendships and opportunities that can last a lifetime Real-world success. One iPath reader followed this advice and landed a job within a week, even though she'd been searching for over a year. She used LinkedIn and email and was hired for a desk position, which is typically harder to get because she was suddenly visible and following up. That's the power of showing up and staying visible. So here's the key takeaway Networking transforms potential into reality. The more genuine connections you make, the more doors will open over time.
Speaker 1:Networking in action a practical checklist. Here's a quick guide to get started immediately Update your LinkedIn headline with your license and certifications. Connect with at least five industry professionals on LinkedIn or in IA specific groups. Hey, you could start with me. Find Chris Stanley on LinkedIn at Chris P Stanley. Share a post about your progress or a milestone in your career. Send a personalized message to a recruiter or hiring manager. Join a community group and participate in the discussion, closing the gap between you and opportunity.
Speaker 1:Networking is how you succeed. For new adjusters, the biggest hurdle often feels like lack of experience and it is. But networking allows you to borrow credibility from those you got your certifications from. It also amplifies those certifications and builds trust with IA firms before they even meet you. When you stay consistent in your efforts, networking will start working for you. The relationships you build today will bring opportunities tomorrow. The question isn't whether networking works. The question is, are you ready to work your network? So it's time to take action. Start building connections today and watch as opportunities start finding you, because with the right network you won't just survive but you'll thrive. You need help. If you need help knowing how to network digitally, I've included email templates from my book, the Networking Adjuster's Playbook. These email templates are the same ones my co-author, kagan Blackburn, used to make a dramatic eXp-free entrance into the world of property adjusting. You can head to iapathcom slash start to grab everything in the IA Starter Kit for free.