Mission: Evolve
Michael Thornton
Foundations Coach
I help agencies hone their tech tools as well as work through best practices to set your agency up for profitable growth.
How I help VIAA Members:
I facilitate New Member Training Programs and oversee ongoing development of our Members. I implement proven best practices to help our Members drive growth, increase profitability and improve retention.
Favorite Part About My Job:
Seeing member agencies thrive and grow beyond what they thought they were capable of and knowing that you played a role in helping them get there.
Coaching Examples:
Had a Zoom call with Member and went over Agency Zoom capabilities and connected PL rater. I added X-date pipeline and showed her how to set an X-date via Smart Cycle as the agency has 1K leads from old Dave Ramsey leads they have kept over the years, in an excel sheet format. I advised them how they can download the lead list. I did advise her about DNS and TPS regulations and provided best practices. I then suggested a meeting with Bill and I to connect ELP leads directly into AZ and then tailor some automations based upon the agency’s needs.
Had a Zoom meeting with Member and helped them present a home and auto package. I went over selling tips and coverage. I have asked him to get comfortable with presenting and then TJ McCoy (Our PL coach) will refine the process based upon carrier and discounts. Following our meeting Bill Kaatman (Our Digital Coach) then showed them how to do a Quotevid.
Had Module 2 training with Member and went over SPC pipeline building. I provide next steps and path to obtain growth goals. Member let me know paperwork for carriers has just been sent out to carriers. I advised him Safeco is the key and once that goes live we can get IVANS set up.
"I wanted you to know that Michael has been extremely helpful to me in establishing my Agency. During the first few months I got off track with the pandemic, systems, and product training. I was handling things backwards and not according to my initial plan. Michael helped me get back to the foundation of the business. We set up a number of appointments relearning systems and logging in premiums and keeping track of my commissions. I am more comfortable with running my agency than I was last year because of Mike. I call him throughout the month and he gets back to me right away. He helps me navigate through my agency problems big or small. I appreciate Mike’s assistance on sponsorship opportunities, partnerships, and hiring new producers. Mike is a wealth of Knowledge and assist me like a wise and professional silent partner. He’s been great and I wanted you to know about the asset you have on your team."
Fun Fact:
I feed the masses, and by that I mean I bring donuts into the office weekly.
Bio:
Prior to joining the VIAA team, Michael worked within the Captive market for 18 years. He has been an Agency Owner for Allstate Insurance, as well as an Agency Development Manager for an $11.2 Million-dollar book of business overseeing three separate offices. He has an extensive sales background and has been a top sales producer. In his managerial roles he has managed a staff of 50 plus employees in three separate departments. Michael, specializes in enhancing efficiencies, providing sales and support staff training, while helping agency owners obtain and exceed their desired goals.
