Conferences & Networking Tips

Conferences & Networking Tips

Author: Heath Shearon September 12, 2024 Duration: 26:51

In this special solo episode, the Mayor of Insurance Town, Heath Shearon, goes solo to share some valuable insights on how to make the most out of conference season! Heath dives into his personal tips and strategies for getting the best value from events. Whether you're attending for networking, education, or just to "shake hands and kiss babies." If you're getting ready for the upcoming conference circuit, you won't want to miss this episode. Heath discusses how to approach conferences with intentionality, how to maximize your networking opportunities, and how to ensure you walk away with meaningful connections and actionable takeaways.

Key Highlights:

  • Choosing the Right Conferences: Not all conferences are created equal! Heath talks about selecting the right events based on your goals, whether you’re looking to network, gain education, or pick up new vendors.
  • Pre-Event Research: Pro-tip: Do your homework before you go! Heath shares why it’s essential to study the attendee list, connect on LinkedIn, and even do a little "social media stalking" to be prepared for impactful conversations.
  • Networking Strategies: Learn how to make the most out of networking events, and why it’s crucial to have a short list of key people you want to connect with.
  • Elevator Pitch Mastery: Work on your 90-second elevator pitch and always have a clear call to action at the end. Whether you're pitching your agency or promoting your podcast, make it tight and impactful!
  • Listen More, Talk Less: One of the most valuable tips from Heath’s experience—be curious, ask questions, and truly listen to what others are saying.
  • Post-Conference Follow-Up: Don’t let those connections go cold! Heath explains the importance of timely follow-up and how having a post-event strategy is key to keeping relationships warm.

Sponsors:

  • SmartChoice - Helping agencies grow with access to markets, higher commissions, and more. Visit SmartChoice
  • Canopy Connect - A game-changer for client onboarding and referrals. Get a Discount www.usecanopy.com/heath 
  • Olde School Marketing - Direct mail with a personal touch, featuring handwritten envelopes and notes. Check them out



Heath Shearon has spent years navigating every corner of the insurance industry, and in Insurance Town, he acts as your guide through its often complex landscape. Think of each episode as a casual, informative conversation held on the front porch of a town built entirely on insurance knowledge. Heath, who jokingly refers to himself as the Mayor, doesn’t just lecture; he brings in the many friends and colleagues he’s met over his career for genuine discussions that break down real-world scenarios. You’ll hear practical advice, behind-the-scenes insights, and straightforward explanations designed for both industry newcomers and seasoned professionals. This isn't about dry theory-it's about the tangible how-to and the why behind common business and personal coverage questions. The tone is welcoming and grounded in experience, set to a bluesy soundtrack courtesy of Daddy Long Legs. Tune into this podcast for a unique blend of business education and relatable storytelling that makes the intricacies of insurance feel approachable and even engaging.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Insurance Town
Podcast Episodes
The “hold my beer” of insurance ! [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 49:52
This week in Insurance town the Mayor sits down with Sarah Koolhof, a dynamic insurance professional whose journey spans theater, rugby, and underwriting. Discover how embracing discomfort and versatility has shaped her…
The Lazy River Files! [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 19:12
In this episode, we are doing something a little different. Casey Nelson and I hosted an open call live one day and we called it the lazy river. WE wanted to invite people to "float in and hang out ad float out. Ive prov…
AI in your business!! [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 31:00
In this weeks episode, release my virtual course in Bob Dietrich and Pamela Dunn's virtual program called "Unlease AI in your Business" that released this week. Hope you enjoy it. Let me know what you think... Sponsored…
What should you be paying attention to in 2026? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 41:15
In this week episode, Heath Shearon and Casey Nelson discuss the importance of standardizing processes in agencies, the impact of AI on business, and the potential societal reset from reducing screen time. They explore t…
Insurance Agency ownership looks a little different these days [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 35:29
This week in Insurance Town I get to catch up with my old friend, and former colleague, Therese Potter of Envela. We have a fun conversation we get to catch up on what she has been up to all the hats she currently wears,…
Fair creates new opportunities and revenue streams for your agency! [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:06:53
In this episode of the Insurance Town Podcast, I sit down with Clint Houke for a wide ranging, high trust conversation to kick off the new year the right way. This is one of those talks that feels like two industry vets…
Out Of Service Keynote from IIANC [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 44:57
HAPPY NEW YEAR!! Thank you so much for yet another amazing year in Insurance Town!! This weeks episode is a little different, No Guest. This week i am releasing one of my keynote presentations from a conference I spoke a…
Let's talk about influence!! [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 59:09
In this episode of Insurance Town, the Mayor sits down with Brian Ahearn to unpack the difference between social media influence and true leadership influence, while also sharing a meaningful conversation around faith, f…
Is Self-Insuring the Future for Business Owners? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 44:33
In this episode of Insurance Town, host Heath Shearon welcomes Van Carlson to discuss the evolution of risk management and the importance of self-insuring for businesses. They explore the 831B tax code, its history, and…