Aneeza Ahmad—Marketing Manager, KASE Insurance
In June I had the privilege of taking IBAO’s new Principal Pathway course—their reimagined prep course for RIBO’s Level 2 Unrestricted Management Exam. The instructor was fantastic, I loved being in the classroom, being able to interact and ask questions. What I loved even more was what I learned about myself, and how I can apply that knowledge to my day job. So I’m sharing my biggest takeaways in the hopes of moving you to “maybe I should take that course?” to “I’m registered and pumped”.
Whether your aspirations are to become a Principal Broker, a leader at your brokerage or to learn more to improve your broker practice, I recommend this course. Even if you don’t know what your future path is, why not take a chance and invest in yourself.
Top 5 Biggest Takeaways
1. Discovering Your Management Style
This course really emphasizes the importance of uncovering your unique approach to managing people. Effective management begins with self-awareness, understanding your strengths, weaknesses and communication style. By recognizing my own style, I can now tailor my interactions and leadership strategies to better support my team. I also have a better understanding of the different types of management styles that exist, and how best to work with each.
2. Building Strong Leadership Skills
Leadership involves guiding and inspiring others towards common goals. Through this course, I learned to cultivate essential leadership traits like good communication, decision-making, delegation and conflict resolution—all crucial for successful brokerage management.
3. Understanding RIBO Requirements
This maybe isn’t at the top of your list. It wasn’t at the top of mine! But aspiring brokerage managers need a solid foundation here—essential in passing the Level 2 exam—but also to run a successful brokerage. I walked away with in-depth knowledge on regulatory compliance, ethics and best practices in insurance. I truly benefited from the guidance while going through the RIB Act.
4. Effective Resource Management
Learning to allocate resources efficiently maximizes productivity. Effective resource management helps ensure the success of a brokerage and its team members. This course equips future managers with the skills to effectively manage time, finances and human capital. I especially benefited from learning about financials—the requirements surrounding trust accounts, how to complete a Form 1 and how to manage the day-to-day of a brokerage.
5. Creating a Positive Work Environment
Successful brokerage management goes beyond overseeing operations—it involves creating a positive workspace. Fostering a supportive and inclusive workplace culture by valuing diversity, promoting teamwork and recognizing employee contributions is how managers boost team morale and productivity. You’ll learn how!