Chris Stanley and Mathew Allen of AdjusterTV dive deep into what it takes to make it big this hurricane season as an independent adjuster.

This 2 1/2hr special covers most things a new adjuster needs to know to be successful including a full hour of live Q&A!

The first part of the presentation covers the 4 keys.

Then Mathew Allen talks about his program and how he helps new IA's, followed by the Q&A session.

You don't want to miss this.

One of the worst things to happen to a new independent adjuster or appraiser is to be blacklisted.

This is where one or more IA Firms or an insurance company list that an individual should not be given any work... period.

If the new person truly offends them they may share with other firms their dislike for the individual and it affects you potentially throughout the industry!

This list is also known as the DO NOT CALL list and several other names.

I've seen this happen to people for only a few simple reasons...

I'm sure you don't want it to happen to you, so I'm going to share how you can avoid this dreadful fate that can stop your career from ever truly taking off.

First off, note that if a specific carrier "blacklists" you it doesn't mean your career is over.

This simply means you can't work for that specific carrier. I've had people in a panic that they were blacklisted or put on the do not call list for a large carrier worried they'd never be able to work again... but this isn't the case.

There are other insurance carriers and plenty of IA Firms you could work for.

Onto the list.

How to Avoid Being Blacklisted as an Independent Adjuster

Embark on a captivating expedition into the heart of the auto claims universe with John Gironda from SCA Claims Services. Max Olson navigates through John's enthralling story, illustrating SCA's extraordinary ascent from its modest beginnings to a colossal claims management leader. Travel with us as we unveil the intricate layers of an industry in flux, spotlighting the breakthroughs and ingenuity that have cemented SCA's standing. Marvel at the tales of transformation, where heavy-duty trucks and motorcycles become as familiar as property damage claims, all through the lens of a man whose career scaled from the ground floor of a body shop to the executive heights of SCA's operations.

In a parallel narrative thread, witness the empowering success stories of IA Path's graduates who have taken the independent adjusting world by storm. We celebrate their journeys from novices, uncertain of their skills in assignment writing, to confident proprietors and industry stalwarts, some even rising to embody IA Path itself. Their ascension, fostered by our nurturing mentorship and immersive hands-on approach, underscores the potent pathways available to those with the grit to carve out a niche in the ever-evolving independent adjusting landscape. Tune in for a session rich with personal victories and the collective progress shaping the future of insurance claims.

Embark on a journey through the financial intricacies of body shop estimating with the guidance of industry sage, Mark Passmore. Unlock the secrets to boosting your earning potential in this competitive field as Mark, my father-in-law and mentor, lays bare the pathway to climbing from starter salaries in the $40,000 range to commanding figures that can exceed $70,000 with time and finesse. This episode is a treasure trove of insights on how embodying confidence and adaptability can make or break your job prospects and salary negotiations.

Venture further into the realm of compensation with a deep dive into the salary structures that govern the lives of body shop estimators. From understanding the baseline of entry-level wages to the allure of the six-figure echelons, we explore the myriad pay models that seasoned professionals navigate. Discover how salary plus commission, hourly wages, and straight salary can shape your career trajectory, and why strong negotiation skills are your ticket to leaving a lasting impression on future employers. Mark and I scrutinize these models alongside the per-piece payment method, delivering a comprehensive portrait of the remuneration landscape.

The final chapter of our discussion turns the spotlight on career transitions within the auto repair industry, particularly for those shifting from independent adjuster or appraiser roles to becoming body shop estimators. We outline the support systems and training resources available for those ready to pivot their career path. With Mark Passmore's expert commentary, we traverse the nuances of job placement, upskilling, and aligning career moves with your professional goals. Whether you're just turning the ignition or shifting gears in your auto estimating career, this episode is your roadmap to success.

Learn why becoming a body shop estimator may be a great decision in your auto estimating career.

While becoming an independent adjuster or appraiser is the perfect career fit for many, others may enjoy working at a shop better.

Some people may find that using their skill to write auto damage estimates as a collision estimator may be a better fit for them in their life.

Find out why with Chris Stanley's mentor, Mark Passmore, Collision Estimator Trainer and Mentor at IA Path.

Ever wondered how to decode the chaos of hail season into a successful stint as an independent adjuster? 

This episode is your essential guide to mastering hailstorm tracking and turning severe weather into promising job opportunities. With my firsthand experience and some nifty tools like CoreLogic and Stormersite.com, you'll learn how to pick out the hail events that scream potential work and those that are just nature's bluster. 

We'll explore why storms rated at level four or five are the ones to watch and how to scrutinize the data for prime deployment areas. Timing and location can be everything when it comes to evaluating the impact of a hailstorm. 

I'll also share personal anecdotes on interpreting the size of hail and its effects on property and auto claims. Remember to stay connected with us on LinkedIn where we share real-time updates and tips on seizing these atmospheric opportunities. Tune in for an episode packed with practical advice that could be the silver lining to the next set of storm clouds.

LINKS MENTIONED
Corelogic - https://www.wvs.corelogic.com/wvs-ui/
Stormersite - https://www.stormersite.com/
NOAA Hail Prediction - https://www.spc.noaa.gov/products/exper/day4-8/

Today I want to share some “One-Two Punch” strategies for independent adjusters.

(if you want to listen to the extended audio version of this newsletter you can check out our Independent Adjuster Podcast along with the 3

The One-Two Punch Strategy: Your Blueprint for Success

For many stepping into the realm of independent adjusting, the big question looms: How can I ensure a sustainable career without banking on a rare “home run”? 

It’s a valid concern, given the tales of adjusters who’ve hit the jackpot with $300,000 earnings in a mere three months. Tempting, isn’t it? 

But what happens if the grand slam never comes?

Here’s where the “One-Two Punch” strategy comes into play, offering a practical approach to carving out a successful, sustainable career in independent adjusting. 

Let’s dive in.

1. Building from the Ground Up

No career journey begins at the summit. 

Whether you dream of Hollywood fame or corporate success, everyone starts from the bottom. 

Independent adjusting is no different. It demands earning your stripes, building trust, and mastering your craft. This foundational phase is where you learn the ropes, explore opportunities, and lay down the groundwork for your future successes.

2. Embracing a Varied Approach

The heart of the One-Two Punch strategy lies in diversification. Rarely does one stick to a single task and thrive. The key? Embrace versatility. 

Here are the combinations that have proven successful for many in the field:

Daily Auto and Heavy Equipment Claims: Starting with auto claims paves your way into heavy equipment claims, with significantly higher payouts. 

This combo not only increases your earning potential but also enhances your skill set and marketability.

Daily Auto and Catastrophic (CAT) Hail Claims: Hail season can be a goldmine. 

By balancing daily auto claims with CAT deployments, you not only ensure a steady income but also open doors to lucrative opportunities during peak seasons.

Transitioning into Property Claims: For those with an eye on the long game, starting with auto claims and gradually moving into property claims can be a strategic move. 

Auto gives you consistent work while property offers a broader scope of work and, potentially, higher earnings.

​Chad Burnett, an IA Path graduate, accomplished this with flying colors. See his story by clicking HERE.​

3. Building a Multi-Faceted Career

The essence of sustainability in independent adjusting lies in not putting all your eggs in one basket. 

Diversify your portfolio by working with multiple companies across different claim types. 

This not only insulates you from market fluctuations but also broadens your horizons, ensuring a richer, more resilient career path.

Conclusion: Your Path to a Thriving Career

Understand that there are paths to sustainability. 

It’s about strategic planning, continuous learning, and embracing the opportunities the industry offers. 

Remember, your journey as an independent adjuster doesn't always have to be about chasing the elusive home run; it can be about about building a career that’s robust, rewarding, and resilient.

P.S. Curious about taking your adjusting career to the next level? 

Reach out, and let’s explore how the One-Two Punch strategy can work for you with our ​online certifications​ that get the 2-5 year experience requirement waived with over 40 IA Firms.

Have you ever found yourself stretched too thin, saying yes to everything and everyone? 

It's a trap many of us fall into, and in our latest podcast, we unpack the art of the gracious 'no.' With a candid recount of my own experiences and the wisdom imparted by my mentor, Brad Fancher, we delve into the necessity of setting boundaries for a healthier work-life equilibrium. As an Independent Adjuster who's been in the trenches, I guide you through an exercise that helps weigh the impact of decisions on the four life currencies: time, money, energy, and relationships. This isn't just about thriving in our careers; it's about crafting a life brimming with intention and fulfillment.

The idea of a dream life can often feel like a mirage—always on the horizon but never within grasp. But what if I told you that it's possible to live your dream life today? This episode isn't just a conversation; it's an invitation to seize the day and find joy in the now. We discuss the unpredictability of life, the preciousness of time, and how setting goals and appreciating what we've already accomplished—like cherished family moments—can coexist harmoniously. 

Tune in and join us on a journey towards living intentionally, a life not defined by a checklist of dreams, but colored by the moments that truly count.

Don't miss this replay of our first ever in person event!

Imagine stepping into a life where your career aligns perfectly with your deepest values and desires. That's the transformational journey we're guiding you through in today's episode, sparked by the catastrophic auto adjusters boot camp with Kobe Hearn and Ashley Kiderman. We put fresh talent through their paces and set the stage for success, which sets a powerful backdrop for the personal tale of my own leap from warehouse worker to independent adjuster, thanks to a pivotal opportunity from my father-in-law.

As your old host, Chris Stanley, I'm laying out the blueprint for shaping the life you've dreamed of, using the world of independent adjusting as our framework. I reminisce about the unconventional spark behind IAPATH and share the profound conversation that propelled my career to new heights, resulting in an online business that empowers adjusters to flourish professionally and personally. It's a narrative bursting with heartfelt advice and the genuine essence of living in harmony with your convictions.

We wrap up with a deep dive into the concept of life currencies – time, energy, relationships, and money – and how their interplay crafts a rich, fulfilling existence. I reveal the 'secret sauce' for managing these currencies to enhance your life's quality to its peak. You'll come away from this episode with a renewed perspective on what it means to be rich, not just in wealth but in experiences, freedom, and connection, ready to claim the dream life that is authentically and uniquely yours.

Today Darren Bloomfield interviews Chris Stanley on the Insurance Nerds podcast "A Day in the Life".

They talk about a whole host of topics,

• IA vs AI
• Future of Claims
• How to have work life balance
• What it's like working remotely from a school bus and sailboat
• and much much more

Check out Darren's podcast as well as all the other great Insurance Nerds shows on Youtube

We are quickly approaching hail season so today I’m going to talk to you about the independent adjusting companies you should be onboarding with, so you have a shot at getting work this hail season.

While hailstorms don’t grab the mainstream headlines like a major hurricane, independent adjusters and auto damage appraisers often get more work opportunities from hailstorms, more consistently, than hurricanes.

To get that work you’ve got to be on the right rosters. 

Not all rosters are created equal and there are several types of rosters you’ll want to be on if you want the best shot at having dimes, nickels, and quarters raining into your bank account. The wrong ones will leave you at home or at worst holding the bag by not paying you.

During my 13 years as an independent appraiser and adjuster I focused 6 of them on just working hail claims during the hail season. I was on the first call list of several rosters and I worked the majority of the hail season. I’ve handled hail claims for 15+ different independent adjusting and appraisal companies and mentored thousands of independent adjusters and appraisers as they dove into the world of catastrophic adjusting.

Let’s look at what you need to know to get ready for this hail season.

Check out the article on How to Get Work This Hail Season for the lists of companies I mentioned in this episode

Auto liability claims are a great way to get additional work and deployments as an independent adjuster.

In this podcast, Chris Stanley walks you through how to complete an auto liability claim as an independent adjuster step by step.

What are Auto Liability Claims?

Most of us don’t understand liability claims. As a result, we miss out on great work opportunities as independent adjusters. We understand auto damage, a car has damage, or property claims, a tree lands on a house, but what is a liability claim?

You can find the visuals and links to the article on this topic by heading to https://iapath.com/auto-liability-claim-steps/

Today we dive into what are the steps of an auto damage claim and what our role is as independent adjusters and appraisers.

There are ten steps to an auto damage claims and 14 things we must do to complete our part of those 10 steps.

I'll break it all down in this episode and you can see visuals that go along with the episode at https://iapath.com/auto-damage-claim/

Don’t you wish there was an independent adjuster calendar that would clue you in on what to do each month?

I’ve been getting a few questions around “How long does it take to get started?” or “Work slowed down, is that normal?”

I figured giving you a month by month breakdown of what I’ve seen over the last 13+ years in our industry and what I’ve seen our 750+ adjusters and appraisers in our IA Path Community experience, may help you have proper expectations and be able to create a plan.

I’ll give some tips on what you should be doing month to month for both new and working IA’s.

Ready? Let’s do this!

Download the Calendar by Clicking HERE

Chad Burnett graduated from IA Path in September of 2021 and immediately began getting work as an adjuster. He had been a police officer for 21 years and transitioned into this new career. He loves the work he is doing now as an IA.

Chad became an insurance adjuster because he wanted a change of pace after 20 years as a police officer. He knew he could get a pension from the city, and he started looking for a new job. He found insurance adjusting through a Google search, and he watched Matt Allen's Adjuster TV to learn more about the profession.

Chad talks about his journey from being a cop to becoming an auto appraiser. The hardest part for him was figuring out all the different parts of the car. He talks about how he has not had a day where he hasn't had a claim in the 14 months since he started and how there is plenty of business. He shares he learns something new every day and that the appraisal industry is much simpler than being a cop.

In the conversation, the speaker talks about his biggest challenge with being an insurance adjuster, which is travel. He has learned to say no to some people for these long distance that are two to three-hour trips away. And that has cleared his slate a lot for opening up a lot more around here, making my cycle time a heck of a lot lower.

Timestamps

0:00:00

Chad Burnett: From Police Officer to Adjuster

0:02:16

Chad's Journey from Police Officer to Insurance Appraiser

0:03:39

Chad's First Claim: A Conversation

0:07:15

Insurance Adjuster Discusses Biggest Challenges After One Year on the Job

0:09:51

The Transition from Auto to Heavy Equipment Appraisal

0:11:38

The Advantages of Being an Insurance Adjuster

0:13:01

Insurance Adjuster Discusses the Pros and Cons of His Job

0:14:49

Leads and Losses: A Conversation with an Insurance Agent

0:16:07

The Benefits of a College Education in the 21st Century

0:17:58

Chad's Advice for Independent Adjusters

0:19:47

Chad's Report Writing Process

0:21:25

Chad's Success Story as an Independent Adjuster

Today Chris Stanley interviews Creston Haverstraw about her IA journey.

Creston started as an independent adjuster 7 months ago and has taken off like a rocket ship. 

Learn from her story how you can get working and how to be successful as an independent adjuster.

Some highlights from this episode are,

• Hear how Creston completed her pre-licensing in less than two weeks.
• What she did to get her first desk deployment immediately after becoming licensed.
• How she transitioned into daily claims
• One of her secrets of her success

This is such a good story that will help you see the path forward to getting started in your independent adjusting or appraising career.

In this finale of the "How to Use Being an Insurance Adjuster to Get What You Want" Chris Stanley breaks down the final step of his goal setting framework.

He also discusses the tools we have to accomplish anything in life and which is the most valuable.

I hope you'll listen and be inspired to set intentional goals for 2023.

In this episode Chris Stanley continues his presentation on How To Use Being an Insurance Adjuster to Get What You Want Out of Live.

He dives into setting milestones and goals for your life based on the direction and dream life you determined.

This episode is part 1 of a presentation Chris Stanley did 1 1/2 years ago at the IA Job Fair.

In it, he lays down the first part of a framework for how you get what you want out of life as an independent adjuster.

Today Chris dives deep into each Life Currencies and explores how you can use these different currencies to claim your life.

To claim your life, you've got to be able to achieve or purchase what you want out of life.

Today Chris unveils his new way of thinking about how we purchase things we want in life.

He calls it the 4 Life Currencies.
- Time
- Energy
- Money
- Relationships

Today Chris Stanley starts a new series on the podcast.

In this first episode Chris explains about Claim Your Life and what to expect over the next few episodes.

If you are looking to live a great life and to claim your life with independent adjusting you don't want to miss this series!

In the conclusion of the revised IA Path series Chris dives into getting on rosters.

In the episode Chris tackles

• What does getting on a roster mean?
• How many rosters should you get on?
• What is the best way to blow an opportunity
• How to combine everything you've done in your journey to make this easy

Don't miss this final step of how to get work as an independent adjuster.