Now more than ever, we rely on technology as our primary form of business communication. We Zoom, Slack, email, and Skype. We hang out on Microsoft Teams ― not in teams. In many ways, we should be grateful that we live in an age where connectivity is possible under any circumstance, but when I reflected on my speech for the 2022 NetVU Annual Meeting of Members, I contemplated not only connection but reconnection and moving forward as individuals and as an organization in a productive and intentional way.
The 1998 classic rom-com “You’ve Got Mail” ushered in digital communication with those three little words. Yet in a line from the film, Meg Ryan’s character says, “The odd thing about this form of communication is that you're more likely to talk about nothing than something.” Prophetic words. Because despite how connective email can be, I do believe something meaningful is lost in the digital translation, especially now that our primary form of communication is through our computer screens.
That is why this is the perfect time to reflect and hit refresh. As we look to chart our future forward with NetVU, we need to strive for a happy medium that engages all the best practices that technology brings while maintaining a personal connectivity to inspire our members. Yes, we can exchange information 24/7, but we also can feel disconnected.
We all should be thinking about a way to modernize our message while still recognizing that members are facing challenges. Even the smallest, personal touches show coworkers that we are striving to foster true and lasting connections. Plus, these engagements create bonds that enhance reliability, trust and relevance, so, when an issue arises or an obstacle stumps us, we feel confident in turning to our NetVU colleagues.
We are more than just Vertafore product users. We are a wealth of education, advocacy, and peer networking. Let’s work together and show the insurance world how it’s done. The more seasoned among us can both mentor and learn from younger colleagues who are redefining professional priorities with youthful energy. This interplay is just what we all need to perfect our collaboration and creativity.
My goal is to help develop supportive programming that meets all of us where we are in our careers. Whether agency owner, producer, account manager or insurtech geek, let’s anticipate what the future holds and brainstorm on how to approach it together. By combining our perspectives and considering our industry from multiple angles, NetVU will become more collaborative and relevant than ever before.
About Joyce
Joyce Sigler is a graduate of the University of Akron and holds designations as a Certified Insurance Service Representative (CISR), Certified Professional Insurance Women (CPIW), and Certified Professional Insurance Agent (CPIA). Joyce is AVP for acquisitions and technology at SeibertKeck Insurance Partners and is chair of the Network of Vertafore Users (NetVU) board of directors for 2022.