Talent + Trust

In today's episode, Rob Houghton provides eight (8) specific tactics on how to get that next big raise and promotion.  Don't be like most people and settle for the usual COLA increase of 3%.  Stand up for yourself and get what you deserve.   Rob discusses in this final part of the series exactly how to get your next raise.     Show Highlights: Learn why personalized goals are the key to specifying your raise request.  Learn why it is never too late to request an informal performance review. Learn why research is an important piece of credibility during your salary negotiation. Learn why role-playing with a friend or family member is a great way to prepare for a salary negotiation with your boss. We always welcome your feedback at rob@mrfairfax.com    And be sure to read my blogs every Friday at Rob's Rants and watch our award-winning show, The Million Dollar Career, at The Million Dollar Career published bi-weekly. For previous podcast episodes, check out Talent + Trust Previous Podcast Episodes All the best, Rob Houghton

In today's episode, Rob Houghton discusses how to get that next big raise and promotion.  Don't be like most people and settle for the usual COLA increase of 3%.  Stand up for yourself and get what you deserve.   Rob discusses some of the common pitfalls and lack of preparation that most employees experience when asking for a raise.  Learn how to prepare and lay the groundwork in this two-part series on asking for and getting a big raise.   Show Highlights: Learn why a successful annual performance review is critical to getting a big raise.  Learn how to manage your boss during an annual performance review. Learn about a high-school grad who routinely gets 12% raises every year and has been promoted four times in the last six years. Learn the five steps to acing your next annual performance review. Next Episode:  In our next podcast, Rob will provide you with 8 specific negotiating tactics to use for getting your next big raise.   We always welcome your feedback at rob@mrfairfax.com    And be sure to read my blogs every Friday at Rob's Rants and watch our award-winning show, The Million Dollar Career, at The Million Dollar Career published bi-weekly. For previous podcast episodes, check out Talent + Trust Previous Podcast Episodes All the best, Rob Houghton

In today's episode, Rob Houghton discusses the best ways to manage your superstars.  Hiring superstars (peak performers) can be a difference-maker and provide needed inspiration for your organization, but it can also deflate and dispirit an organization if not expertly managed.  Check out the WSJ article How to Manage a Superstar Employee  Rob discusses some of the common pitfalls that employers make when bringing on board a superstar.  Rob also ties in his private sector corporate experience with his military special operations experience to draw some interesting comparisons. Show Highlights: Find out why 25% is about the right ratio of superstars to staff in a typical organization.  Are professional sports divas any different than corporate superstars? Find out how superstars are directly related to increased organizational innovation. Find out how superstars who are perceived as aloof generate twice as much negativity, hostile opinions, and gossip more than others. Next Episode:  In our next podcast, Rob will begin a new series titled, “Career Talk.”  These podcasts will discuss the nuts and bolts of how you can most effectively plan, build, and supercharge your career.  The first episode will explore the topic of Annual Performance Reviews.  Rob will provide you with the inside scoop on how to turn your next review into a career-enhancing move! We always welcome your feedback at rob@mrfairfax.com    And be sure to read my blogs every Friday at Rob's Rants and watch our award-winning show, The Million Dollar Career, at The Million Dollar Career published bi-weekly. For previous podcast episodes, check out Talent + Trust Previous Podcast Episodes

In today's episode, Rob Houghton discusses the concept of the RKG.  The Right Kind of Guy/Gal.  Professional sports teams, elite military units, and business leaders all have their own version of the RKG.  Being an RKG allows you to avoid all the nonsense behind Quiet Quitting, Quiet Firing, and now Quiet Hiring as well.  It's where you want to be as a professional and a good citizen. Show Highlights: How does being the RKG avoid the dreaded Quiet Quitting, Quiet Firing, and Quiet Hiring?   What exactly is an RKG? What are the attributes of an RKG? How can you become an RKG? Based on Rob's attributes outlined in the show, are you an RKG or just another Poseur?   Next Episode:  In our next podcast, Rob will explore the topic of Quiet Firing in much greater detail and show you why it is the ultimate form of passive-aggressive cowardice in the workplace today.  We always welcome your feedback at rob@mrfairfax.com    And be sure to read my blogs every Friday at Rob's Rants and watch our award-winning show, The Million Dollar Career, at The Million Dollar Career published bi-weekly. For previous podcast episodes, check out Talent + Trust Previous Podcast Episodes   All the best, Rob Houghton  

In today's episode, Rob Houghton provides his expert take on the new phenomenon called, “Quiet Firing” and how it relates to Quiet Quitting and Quiet Hiring.  Are you being “quietly fired” right now?  Find out what this is all about and how not to be a victim of this cowardly act. Show Highlights: #1 What exactly is Quiet Firing?  Learn how to recognize this cowardly act and when an employer quietly identifies internal employees for termination who are underperformers.  #2 How Quiet Firing is a Double-Edged Sword:    Rob provides a recent example of how Quiet Firing can backfire on a firm by casting a shadow of distrust over the entire organization. #3 Why Quiet Firing is just plain wrong:  Learn how Quiet Firing is the opposite side of the same coin as Quiet Quitting.  Next Episode:  In our next podcast, Rob will explore the concept of the RKG – the “Right Kind of Guy/Gal” and how you can benefit and from this and supercharge your career.   We always welcome your feedback at rob@mrfairfax.com    And be sure to read my blogs every Friday at Rob's Rants and watch our award-winning show, The Million Dollar Career, at The Million Dollar Career published bi-weekly. For previous podcast episodes, check out Talent + Trust Previous Podcast Episodes   All the best, Rob Houghton

In today's episode, Rob Houghton discusses the concept of the Cyber-Bohemian. Learn how this trend is far more dangerous to society and the workplace than the Quiet Quitter.  Also, learn how this new dynamic can positively impact your career. Show Highlights: Learn how to recognize a Cyber-Bohemian.  Are you one?  Not likely if you are reading this. Learn how to exploit the Cyber-Bohemian to your great advantage in your life and within your organization. Learn what fate ultimately awaits the Cyber-Bohemian. We always welcome your feedback at rob@mrfairfax.com    And be sure to read my blogs every Friday at Rob's Rants and watch our award-winning show, The Million Dollar Career, at The Million Dollar Career published bi-weekly. For previous podcast episodes, check out Talent + Trust Previous Podcast Episodes   All the best, Rob Houghton

In today's episode, Rob Houghton discusses the concept of Owners & Temps.  Find out how one famous billionaire coined this phrase over dinner one night with Rob Houghton.  Find out the difference between being an owner and temp.  And what it means for your job security and how you handle yourself with potential suitors. Show Highlights: Find out why you should always welcome inquiries from recruiters and other potential suitors.   Learn the tale of one of WDC's most successful insurance producers and his unexpected fall from grace. Get the back story on Rob's dinner conversation with a billionaire and how the term, “Owners & Temps” came into being. Are you an owner or a temp? Next Episode:  In our next podcast, Rob will explore the topic of Quiet Firing in much greater detail and show you why it is the ultimate form of passive-aggressive cowardice in the workplace today.  We always welcome your feedback at rob@mrfairfax.com    And be sure to read my blogs every Friday at Rob's Rants and watch our award-winning show, The Million Dollar Career, at The Million Dollar Career published bi-weekly. For previous podcast episodes, check out Talent + Trust Previous Podcast Episodes All the best, Rob Houghton #propertyandcasualty #employeebenefits #executivesearch #recruitment #insurancecareers

In today's episode, Rob Houghton discusses the differences between Quiet Quitting, Quiet Firing, and now Quiet Hiring – and what it means for those Generation Z'ers in the workforce. Show Highlights: What is the difference between Quiet Quitting, Quiet Firing, and Quiet Hiring?   How do firms implement the practice of Quiet Hiring?  Is it ethical? How can you take advantage of Quiet Hiring at your firm?  It is most definitely taking place where you work now. What are the professional benefits of Quiet Hiring and why do firms engage in this practice now?   Next Episode:  In our next podcast, Rob will discuss how Quiet Hiring can create a culture of “Owners & Temps.”  We always welcome your feedback at rob@mrfairfax.com    And be sure to read my blogs every Friday at Rob's Rants and watch our award-winning show, The Million Dollar Career, at The Million Dollar Career published bi-weekly. For previous podcast episodes, check out Talent + Trust Previous Podcast Episodes All the best, Rob Houghton

In today's episode, I demonstrate how the Red Challenge Flag Rule in the NFL can be applied to your personal and professional life and make you much more effective in your decision-making. Show Highlights: External Input: How the NFL provides its external input to keep refs accountable.   Accountability:  How increased accountability of referees leads to objective outcomes with the advent of legalized gambling. Lawyer's Hat:  How external input helps lawyers plan for the unexpected when trying a legal case. Empowerment:  How NFL coaches have become empowered by being able to challenge a referee's decision on the field.  Rob explains how you can do the same. Red Teaming:  Rob explains how the Red Challenge Flag is another form of US Special Operations' Red Teaming.   Next Episode:  In our next podcast, Rob will discuss his upcoming annual trip to the Saratoga horse races with Million Dollar Career co-host, Craig Picken.  We always welcome your feedback at rob@mrfairfax.com    And be sure to read my blogs every Friday at Rob's Rants and watch our award-winning show, The Million Dollar Career, at The Million Dollar Career published bi-weekly. For previous podcast episodes, check out Talent + Trust Previous Podcast Episodes   All the best, Rob Houghton

In today's episode, I review recent legislation regarding employers asking prospective job seekers about their salary history.  It is now against the law to do this in more than 20 states and counting. I have always coached my candidates not to disclose their current or past salary to a hiring authority because I always thought it was an unfair question.  It's irrelevant.  Is it fair to ask a homeowner how much he paid for the house he is selling to you? Of course not. Show Highlights: Rob reviews recent Virginia state legislation which now prohibits employers from asking salary history information from a job seeker.   Rob provides several strategies for employers or hiring authority to stay in compliance with this new law. Rob walks the candidate through the minefield of how to handle salary history and salary expectations questions during an interview.   Next Episode:  In our next podcast, we will discuss the NFL's Red Flag Rule and how you can use this same principle to improve your performance in the business world.  We always welcome your feedback at rob@mrfairfax.com    And be sure to read my blogs every Friday at Rob's Rants and watch our award-winning show, The Million Dollar Career, at The Million Dollar Career published bi-weekly. For previous podcast episodes, check out Talent + Trust Previous Podcast Episodes All the best, Rob Houghton

In today's episode, I will review our 18th Semi-Annual Insurance Salary Report for the WDC region.   Lots of interesting data to breakdown including the current state of the WDC insurance brokerage job market including a macroeconomic look at how national employment trends are directly impacting the supply-demand side for insurance professionals and agencies in the WDC region. Show Highlights: Rob reviews the significant compensation increases for P&C and Employee Benefits Account Managers and Producers from 2018 until right now.   Rob reviews the winners and losers in the report. Rob explains why employers can't print employees – he discusses the factors affecting the shortage of insurance professionals including COVID, Stay at Home Moms, Remote Work, and other factors affecting the insurance talent pool.   Next Episode:  In our next podcast, we will discuss the lively feedback that will surely follow this report.  We always welcome your feedback at rob@mrfairfax.com    And be sure to read my blogs every Friday at Rob's Rants and watch our award-winning show, The Million Dollar Career, at The Million Dollar Career published bi-weekly. For previous podcast episodes, check out Talent + Trust Previous Podcast Episodes All the best, Rob Houghton

In today's episode, we continue our series on Coaching.  Each episode in this series will provide you with ways to plan, build, and supercharge your insurance career through four unique areas of coaching.  Today, I provide you with the basics of Career Coaching and how this can help you supercharge your career AND personal life. Show Highlights: Rob explains the difference between Career Coaching and Life Coaching.   Rob explains how Career Coaching can change your professional and personal life. Rob explains how Career Coaching is a journey of Self-Discovery where you are charting your own course to 1) Help you find the right career, 2) Build, grow, and supercharge your existing career, and 3) Enable and empower you to make a career change.   Next Episode:  In our next podcast, we will discuss the results of our Semi-Annual WDC Region Salary Report.  These results will surprise you!   We always welcome your feedback at rob@mrfairfax.com    And be sure to read my blogs every Friday at Rob's Rants and watch our award-winning show, The Million Dollar Career, at The Million Dollar Career published bi-weekly. For previous podcast episodes, check out Talent + Trust Previous Podcast Episodes All the best, Rob Houghton

In today's episode, we continue our series on Professional Coaching.  Each episode in this series will provide you with ways to plan, build, and supercharge your insurance career through four unique areas of coaching.  Today, I provide you with the basics of Life Coaching and how this can help you supercharge your career AND personal life. Show Highlights: Rob explains the difference between Life Coaching and Executive Coaching.   Rob explains how Life Coaching can change your life. Rob explains how Life Coaching is a journey of Self-Discovery where you are charting your own course to Self-Realization.   Next Episode:  In our next podcast, we will bring you part 4 which will dive deep into the world of Career Coaching.   We always welcome your feedback at rob@mrfairfax.com    And be sure to read my blogs every Friday at Rob's Rants and watch our award-winning show, The Million Dollar Career, at The Million Dollar Career published bi-weekly. For previous podcast episodes, check out Talent + Trust Previous Podcast Episodes All the best, Rob Houghton

In today's episode, we continue our series on Professional Coaching.  Each episode in this series will provide you with ways to plan, build, and supercharge your insurance career through four unique areas of coaching.  Today, I provide you with the basics of Executive Coaching and how this can help you supercharge your career – and probably your personal life as well!  Show Highlights: Rob explains the difference between Executive Coaching and Life Coaching.   Rob explains how Executive Coaching can provide you with a competitive advantage in your professional career. Rob explains how executive coaching is more powerful than traditional consulting, advising, instructing, or teaching.   Next Episode:  In our next podcast, we will bring you Part Two which will dive deep into the world of Life Coaching.   We always welcome your feedback at rob@mrfairfax.com    And be sure to read my blogs every Friday at Rob's Rants and watch our award-winning show, The Million Dollar Career, at The Million Dollar Career published bi-weekly. For previous podcast episodes, check out Talent + Trust Previous Podcast Episodes All the best, Rob Houghton  

In today's episode, we introduce a new and special series on Professional Coaching.  Each episode in this series will provide you with ways to plan, build, and supercharge your insurance career through four unique areas of coaching.  Today, I provide you with the basics of professional coaching and why it could help supercharge your career.  Show Highlights: Rob the four major areas of professional coaching and how it could take you to the next level both personally and professionally.   Rob explains how coaching is more powerful than traditional consulting, advising, instructing, or teaching.   Rob explains why coaching is so powerful and who some of the famous people are that have used coaching to take their game to the next level.   Next Episode:  In our next podcast, we will bring you Part One which will dive deep into the world of Executive Coaching.   We always welcome your feedback at rob@mrfairfax.com    And be sure to read my blogs every Friday at Rob's Rants and watch our award-winning show, The Million Dollar Career, at The Million Dollar Career published bi-weekly. For previous podcast episodes, check out Talent + Trust Previous Podcast Episodes All the best, Rob Houghton

In today's episode, we continue with our special series on “Three Ways”.  Each episode in this series will provide you with three specific ways to plan, build, and supercharge your insurance career.  Today, I discuss Three Ways to Get that Big Promotion.  Show Highlights: #1 Way: The Devil's Advocate – Rob discusses how to make playing the role of “Devil's Advocate in meetings pays off big time for you.   #2 Way: Communicate Up and Down the Line – Rob explains why it is critical that you be able to communicate to BOTH your senior executive team and your direct reports.   #3 Way: Measure & Track – Rob discusses why not measuring and tracking your accomplishments is a career limiting move.   Next Episode:  We are transitioning to a new topic series: Coaching.  Many of you know that I have just received my international Life/Career coaching certifications and licensing so I will be exploring with you why so many peak-performers have personal coaches now. We always welcome your feedback at rob@mrfairfax.com    And be sure to read my blogs every Friday at Rob's Rants and watch our award-winning show, The Million Dollar Career, at The Million Dollar Career published bi-weekly. For previous podcast episodes, check out Talent + Trust Previous Podcast Episodes All the best, Rob Houghton

In today's episode, we continue with our special series on “Three Ways”.  Each episode in this series will provide you with three specific ways to plan, build, and supercharge your insurance career.  Today, I discuss Three Ways to Negotiate your next Big Raise.  Show Highlights: #1 Way: It's not just about the base salary – Craig and Rob discuss how to get what you want by thinking of total cash compensation including bonuses and other incentive compensation.  Rob gives you the one question to ask in every performance review that will get you a significant bonus – every time.   #2 Way: Setting mutually agreed upon benchmarks – Rob explains how to establish mutually agreed-upon goals and objectives with your boss and how to convert this to additional compensation.   #3 Way: Ask for more responsibility – Rob and Craig explain how to take on more responsibility in your job and why this is so important.   Next Episode:  We will talk about the Three Ways to get a Big Promotion. We always welcome your feedback at rob@mrfairfax.com    And be sure to read my blogs every Friday at Rob's Rants and watch our award-winning show, The Million Dollar Career, at The Million Dollar Career published bi-weekly. For previous podcast episodes, check out Talent + Trust Previous Podcast Episodes All the best, Rob Houghton

Welcome to another episode of talent and trust insurance careers.  In today's episode, we welcome back guest, Craig Picken, President of NorthStar Group, and talk Sales: The Greatest Career? Can you teach sales skills? Is it true? Either have it, or you don't? What makes a good salesperson? Grit, determination, and team ability. Having a drive for competition. Being able to deal with rejection. Building a book of business. You are the brand and it's your business. Listening and being open to talking about anything. Next Episode:  Three Ways to Manage your Boss. Are you interested in being on a Talent and Trust podcast? Message me directly at rob@mrfairfax.com   Be sure to read my blogs every Friday at Rob's Rants and watch our award-winning show, The Million Dollar Career, at The Million Dollar Career published bi-weekly. All the best, Rob Houghton

In today's episode, we continue with our special series on “Three Ways”.  Each episode in this series will provide you with three specific ways to plan, build, and supercharge your insurance career.  Today, I discuss Three Ways to ace your next interview.  Show Highlights: #1 Way: Play Offense - Interview the Client.  Never let a hiring authority pin you down with a million questions.  Learn the art of ‘conversational mapping' to turn the tide in your favor.   #2 Way:  Storytelling – Learn the value of telling mini-stories and vignettes.  Instead of reciting the facts and figures from your resume, provide some well-thought-out “mini-stories”.  These are examples of some of your biggest success stories that you can relate back to your experience.  It brings to life your professional and personal experiences.   #3 Way: Preparation – Chance favors the prepared mind.  Learn the inside scoop on how to properly prepare for an interview.  Preparation shines through during the first ten minutes of an interview.  Find out why the first ten minutes of an interview are the most important.   Next Episode:  We will talk about why sales is the greatest career of them all. We always welcome your feedback at rob@mrfairfax.com    And be sure to read my blogs every Friday at Rob's Rants and watch our award-winning show, The Million Dollar Career, at The Million Dollar Career published bi-weekly. All the best, Rob Houghton  

In today's episode, I visit with a special guest of mine who has the courage of a lion.  This individual spent most of the past 20 years in the insurance business working behind the scenes as an account manager supporting sales before recently deciding to be a commission-based sales producer.   We going to learn today how my guest pulled this off and what that transition to sales was like.   Kim Smith, Welcome to the Show!   Show Highlights: So what made you decide to take the leap into commission-based sales? What is the Day in the Life of an insurance sales producer like? How is it different than insurance account management? They say women are better salespeople.  What do you think?   You've met with quite a splash in a relatively short period of time selling insurance to truckers.  Why do truckers buy from you? Do you have an industry specialty? Why trucking? What kind of coverages do you provide? Do you have a way about you that draws people in?  Is it the Voice? Or is it the lively personality? How do you find most of your sales leads? What motivates you to do sales?  Money? Recognition? The People? Are you happier now that you are doing sales? Where do you see yourself in this business in five years?  The subject matter expert in trucking?  The go-to person in trucking insurance? A successful insurance sales producer can make a lot of money – what are you going to do with it all?  Cars, houses, vacations?? I don't see you as a typical insurance sales guy out on the golf course – what do you do in your spare time?   Sales can be a grind.  How do you recharge your batteries?  Any advice for anyone out there in account management who is considering making the same transition to sales?

In today's episode, I kick off our special series on “Three Ways”.  Each episode in this series will provide you with three specific ways to plan, build, and supercharge your insurance career.  Today, Craig Picken returns to the show as my guest to discuss the Three Ways to Get Yourself Fired.  Show Highlights: #1 Way: Lack of Extreme Ownership:  In times of acquisitions and company reorganizations, you must be accountable for your work.  Find out how why it is so important that leaders take responsibility for their direct reports and staff make sure they meet or exceed goals and objectives set with their supervisors. #2 Way:  The Lone Wolf Syndrome.  If you're not a team player or get frustrated by bureaucracy and office politics, find something else to do.  Start a company.  Be an entrepreneur. Knowing how to operate within a system of process and structure is a corporate survival skill.  Learn how to navigate your way around an organization. #3 Way: Lack of Continuous Improvement:  If you're not moving forward, you're moving backward.  Find out how you can improve your value to your organization by taking that extra step.  It's not that hard.  The resources are a click away.  Find out why reading non-fiction AND fiction is one of the best ways to improve yourself.   We always welcome your feedback at rob@mrfairfax.com   And be sure to read my blogs every Friday at www.mrfairfax.com too.

Welcome to “Talent & Trust:  The Great Realization Revisited:  A discussion with Craig Picken.  In today's episode, Craig joins me to discuss the ramifications of “The Great Realization” and how it tied to the Great Resignation.  We also stumble onto the next logical iteration of all this: “The Great Re-Focusing.”     Show Highlights: Craig and I discuss and deconstruct The Great Realization. We discuss how the Great Realization is driving the Great Resignation. We relay our personal stories of how the Great Realization is affecting today's workplace. Why are 40% of all workers considering leaving their jobs within the next 12 months? We introduce The Next Big Thing:  The Great Re-Focusing. Learn how quality time to think leads to self-discovery which then leads to Self-Realization. How knowing the 12 Key Drivers to Happiness can help you attract and retain top talent in your business. We discuss and provide specific examples of how these 12 Key Drivers separate the winners from the losers in attracting and retaining key talent.

In today's episode of Talent & Trust, I discuss The Great Realization and how it is revolutionizing the workplace. As part of The Great Realization, I also reveal the 12 Key Drivers to Workplace Happiness. Show Highlights What is the Great Realization? How is it more transformative than The Great Resignation? Why does the Great Realization drive The Great Resignation and why are they joined at the hip? Why are 40% of all workers considering leaving their jobs within the next 12 months? The unintended consequences of Covid-19 and how it has changed how people think in the workplace forever. Learn how quality time to think leads to self-discovery which then leads to Self-Realization. What is Self-Realization?  Why is it so powerful? How does Self-Realization lead to Happiness? How knowing the 12 Key Drivers to Happiness can help you attract and retain top talent in your business. Find me also on YouTube where I host the bi-weekly show, “The Million Dollar Career.”  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRnEb_TSySCoSO2ItIEpwCA

In today's episode of Talent & Trust, I discuss the concept of Decisive Engagement and how this US Military Special Forces combat tactic can be applied to planning, building, and supercharging your Million Dollar career.  Show Highlights: Why the Decisive Engagement concept is critical to military special operations success on the battlefield. How Prioritize and Execute are a key part of Decisive Engagement and the key to handling chaos.   How multi-tasking can get you into trouble in your current or future career. How are a leader who takes on too many challenges at once is doomed to failure. Find me also on YouTube where I host the bi-weekly show, “The Million Dollar Career.”  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRnEb_TSySCoSO2ItIEpwCA

In today's episode, I respond to a listener's request on how to negotiate a job offer.  My answer may surprise you because not knowing how or when to negotiate a job offer could cost you dearly.  It could cost you that job, your ability to professionally grow, and your future earnings potential.  Join me for an in-depth discussion on exactly how to successfully negotiate a job offer. Show Highlights: Why do you always want to carefully read the entire offer letter? Why do you negotiate before the written offer is sent to you. Learn what the key negotiating points are for any job offer. Learn why salary is not the most important negotiating item. Learn why you never answer the question, “how much are you making now?” Learn why employment agreements can limit your future earning potential and even who you can and cannot work for in the future. Learn how an executive recruiter can make you big money.

In today's episode, I review the surprising results of our 18th Annual WDC Insurance Salary Report.  It is a “candidate market” now and salaries are surging to unprecedented levels.  Join me for an in-depth discussion of why salaries are surging and where we go from here. Show Highlights: How COVID-19 has driven up insurance compensation. Learn why six million workers have left the workforce.   Learn why Remote from Work flexibility has changed the way insurance firms secure and retain top talent. Learn why Employee Benefits account managers and producers make significantly more than their P&C counterparts. Learn why acquisitions in the WDC market are all about securing top talent and not about buying the revenue streams. You can also find me also on YouTube where I host the bi-weekly show, “The Million Dollar Career.”  

Where has all the Talent Gone with Guest Craig Picken, President of NorthStar Group.  We talk about how the working environment has shifted and what businesses can do to help keep talented professionals in the working world.  My job every episode is to provide you with my unique experiences and insights learned over the years as a trusted talent advisor and recruiter so that you can better plan, develop, and supercharge your insurance career. As always, email me directly at rob@mrfairfax.com with your thoughts.  

In today's episode, I have a conversation with Craig Picken, President of NorthStar Group.  Craig is one of the premier executive recruiters in aviation and aerospace who bills over $1 million annually.  Someone told me a long time ago, “Rob…a man should always have three business cards in your wallet:  a doctor, a lawyer, and a really good recruiter.  It's true.  In today's volatile world, if you're not an owner, you're a temp.  Two weeks from being kicked to the street.  Steve Jobs was fired from Apple.  Join Craig Picken and me for an informative and sometimes hilarious insider's look at why you should have a recruiter's card in your wallet.   Show Highlights: How can a really good recruiter provide you with the ultimate job security? How a good executive recruiter can use third-party leverage to get you a higher starting salary. Clients pay executive recruiters; not you. How do executive recruiters find you the best jobs? Why selecting a recruiter with an industry specialty is a must.  

Join returning guest, Craig Picken, and me for a look back on wealthy individuals we have personally known over the years that have made it big, lost it all, and then made it back again. I'd love to hear your thoughts.  Email me directly at rhoughton@mrfairfax.com. Every episode I provide you with the unique experiences and insights I've learned over the years as a trusted talent advisor and recruiter so that you can better plan, develop, and super-charge your insurance career.

Insurance Agency Owner, Bill Bolton provides an insider's view of what a Day in the Life of a successful insurance producer looks like. He looks back on his 15 years in the insurance business as both producer and owner. Every episode I provide you with the unique experiences and insights I've learned over the years as a trusted talent advisor and recruiter so that you can better plan, develop, and super-charge your insurance career.

Executive Recruiter, Craig Picken and I provide you with our thoughts on what makes an A+ Player. The reasons may surprise you. Are you an A+ player? Why not? I'd love to hear your thoughts.  Email me directly at rhoughton@mrfairfax.com. Every episode I provide you with the unique experiences and insights I've learned over the years as a trusted talent advisor and recruiter so that you can better plan, develop, and super-charge your insurance career.

Exciting changes are underway at Management Recruiters of Fairfax. Within a few weeks, we will be known as MRF. Our website will reflect our new branding along with an improved social media presence to help you plan, build, and super-charge your insurance career. As always, email me directly at rob@mrfairfax.com with your thoughts. My job every episode is to provide you with my unique experiences and insights learned over the years as a trusted talent advisor and recruiter so that you can better plan, develop, and supercharge your insurance career.

Where is all the young insurance talent?  There is a crisis now in the ability of insurance agencies and brokers to attract and retain the next generation of young superstars in our industry.  I will discuss three things you can do right now to make this happen in your firm. As always, email me directly at rhoughton@mrfairfax.com with your thoughts. My job every episode is to provide you with my unique experiences and insights learned over the years as a trusted talent advisor and recruiter so that you can better plan, develop, and supercharge your insurance career. 

Due to the unprecedented demand for top talent, firms are now counter-offering their employees at every opportunity.  Please join me for a discussion on why you never accept a counter-offer. As always, email me directly at rhoughton@mrfairfax.com with your thoughts. My job every episode is to provide you with my unique experiences and insights learned over the years as a trusted talent advisor and recruiter so that you can better plan, develop, and super-charge your insurance career.

In this podcast Rob and Craig explore how firms can attract the Next Generation of Superstars.  We discuss exactly what this new generation is looking for.  What drives them?  All this sprinkled with the usual funny and inspiring anecdotes of our experiences with billionaires and the Uber Wealthy.  We welcome your feedback! As always, email me directly at rhoughton@mrfairfax.com with your thoughts.

In this podcast Rob and Craig will take you to faraway Africa and the boardroom of a Fortune 500 company to share some funny stories about how they dealt with difficult bosses early in their corporate career.  You will learn why you resist the temptation to whine and complain to your superior.  Instead, look inward and you may discover something important about yourself.  It's what millionaires do.  We welcome your feedback! As always, email me directly at rhoughton@mrfairfax.com with your thoughts. You can reach Craig at craig@northstaresg.com My job every episode is to break down and deconstruct the "War on Talent" in 15 minutes or less so that YOU can win this battle through a greater understanding of how clients, candidates, and recruiters work together. 

In this podcast, my guest, Craig Picken, and I share our experiences working with and for billionaires and dive into a “Day in the Life” of a billionaire.  Please join us on this informative and hilarious ride back to the future.  Maybe you can adopt some of these traits to become the next billionaire in insurance?   My job every episode is to break down and deconstruct the "War on Talent" in 15 minutes or less so that YOU can win this battle through a greater understanding of how clients, candidates, and recruiters work together. 

This is the podcast version of the soon-to-be-launched YouTube Channel titled, “Million Dollar Careers.”  In this podcast we discuss how important having the right “million dollar” mindset is to taking that next step in your career.  We welcome your feedback! As always, email me directly at rhoughton@mrfairfax.com with your thoughts. My job every episode is to break down and deconstruct the "War on Talent" in 15 minutes or less so that YOU can win this battle through a greater understanding of how clients, candidates, and recruiters work together. 

In this episode, I discuss the recent phenomenon “The Great Resignation.”  I explore the genesis of this movement, the causes, and the significant impact this is having on your career.  Please join me to learn how you can play this to your career and financial advantage! As always, email me directly at rhoughton@mrfairfax.com with your thoughts. My job every episode is to break down and deconstruct the "War on Talent" in 15 minutes or less so that YOU can win this battle through a greater understanding of how clients, candidate recruiters work together. 

I discuss the new dynamic of “Hybrid Work” and the difference between Hybrid work, Remote Work and Commuter Work.  As always, email me directly at rhoughton@mrfairfax.com with your thoughts. My job every episode is to provide you with our latest insurance job openings and perspective on compensation, interviewing, career planning, and other insights so you can fast-track your career and make more money. 

BONUS: We're dropping 1 more Talent and Virtue interview! We welcome podcast producer Natalie Pyles to help recap our 10 amazing guests and to turn the tables on Rob and interview him!   Here's a recap of our fantastic Talent and Virtue Guests: 48 - Series Introduction 49 - Craig Picken 50 - Peter Gold  51 - Ross Newland  52 - Bryan Baird 54 - Kevin Houghton 56 - David Lundberg 58 - Vinny Marra  60 - Bill Bolton 62 - Rudolph Rombaut 65 - Patience Ayanyemi   Listen in as Rob answers questions about his career experiences, book recommendations, faith, and even his achilles heal. We learn the greatest lesson he learned from his upbringing and why he values independence and entrepreneurship so highly. Rob shares how he spots honesty and courage in recruits when working on job placements. Lastly, be sure to stick around to the end to hear how Rob stood down a Kenyan mob boss 50 stories up!      As always, email Rob directly at rhoughton@mrfairfax.com with your thoughts. Our job every episode is to break down and deconstruct the "War on Talent" in 15 minutes or less so that YOU can win this battle through a greater understanding of how clients, candidate recruiters work together. 

I present five compelling reasons why Insurance is a great career for a young professional.  I discuss the chronic shortage of talent in the marketplace, the ability to make big money, career stability, and how insurance is one of the most interesting professions out there that nobody has heard of! As always, email me directly at rhoughton@mrfairfax.com with your thoughts. My job every episode is to break down and deconstruct the "War on Talent" in 15 minutes or less so that YOU can win this battle through a greater understanding of how clients, candidates, and recruiters work together. 

I will discuss the unintended consequences of some employers now requiring staff to return to their offices.  Yes, the dreaded daily commute is back.  But wait a minute…not so fast.  The Genie is out of the bottle.  Forcing employees back in to the office is not as easy as it sounds.  In fact, there is a major talent shift occurring right now from “back to the office” firms to those that are smartly retaining their work at home policies.  And is the COVID-19 pandemic really even over? As always, email me directly at rhoughton@mrfairfax.com with your thoughts. My job every episode is to break down and deconstruct the "War on Talent" in 15 minutes or less so that YOU can win this battle through a greater understanding of how clients, candidates, and recruiters work together. 

In part ten of this series, I take a journey back to my own roots in Africa and have a heartfelt and inspiring conversation with Nigerian-based Ms. Patience Ayanyemi.  Through sheer grit and determination, this individual battled all odds to raise her own siblings, educate herself, and become one of West Africa's leading business entrepreneurs.  Please join us on a ride to Africa! As always, email me directly at rhoughton@mrfairfax.com with your thoughts. My job every episode is to break down and deconstruct the "War on Talent" in 15 minutes or less so that YOU can win this battle through a greater understanding of how clients, candidate recruiters work together. 

In this three-minute bullet podcast, I highlight two urgent positions with my best insurance client in the WDC Metro area.  As always, email me directly at rhoughton@mrfairfax.com with your thoughts. My job every episode is to provide you with our latest insurance job openings and perspective on compensation, interviewing, career planning, and other insights so you can fast-track your career and make more money. 

In this three-minute bullet podcast, I highlight three urgent positions with my best insurance client in Virginia Beach.  As always, email me directly at rhoughton@mrfairfax.com with your thoughts. My job every episode is to provide you with our latest insurance job openings and perspective on compensation, interviewing, career planning, and other insights so you can fast-track your career and make more money. 

In part nine of this series, I have a jaw-dropping conversation with Space & Tech Entrepreneur, Rudolph Rombaut.  This young man was so compelling in the interview, I found myself furiously taking notes.  Could this be the next Elon Musk?  Listen and find out.  You may be surprised. As always, email me directly at rhoughton@mrfairfax.com with your thoughts. My job every episode is to break down and deconstruct the "War on Talent" in 15 minutes or less so that YOU can win this battle through a greater understanding of how clients, candidate recruiters work together. 

I will explain and review the significant impact of the just released 2021 Semi-Annual Insurance Salary Report for the WDC Region and surrounding areas.  Compensation levels for insurance professionals in the WDC area are surging by more than 10%.  I will reveal the reasons for this sudden surge. As always, email me directly at rhoughton@mrfairfax.com with your thoughts. My job every episode is to break down and deconstruct the "War on Talent" in 15 minutes or less so that YOU can win this battle through a greater understanding of how clients, candidates, and recruiters work together. 

In part eight of this series, I have a wide-ranging discussion with long-time friend and business colleague, Bill Bolton, who recently started his own insurance agency in the Northern Virginia market.  Bill's rise from short order cook to chef to insurance sales guy to becoming the owner of one of WDC Metro's most innovative insurance firms is both funny and inspiring.  Bill's take on Temperance is hilarious.  Join us for this wild ride. As always, email me directly at rhoughton@mrfairfax.com with your thoughts. My job every episode is to break down and deconstruct the "War on Talent" in 15 minutes or less so that YOU can win this battle through a greater understanding of how clients, candidates, and recruiters work together. 

We are urgently searching now for two commercial lines account manager to work for one of our top national insurance brokerage client firms.  Both are 100% remote so you can literally work from a mountain top or a sea shore.  This client is a leading nationwide insurance broker.  As always, email me directly at rhoughton@mrfairfax.com with your thoughts. My job every episode is to break down and deconstruct the "War on Talent" in 15 minutes or less so that YOU can win this battle through a greater understanding of how clients, candidates, and recruiters work together. 

In part seven of this series, I have an inspiring discussion with Vinny Marra who provides us with the trials and tribulations of being a NYPD police detective battling for control of the streets of NYC with gangs, narcotics traffickers, and terrorists post 9-11.    Vinny takes us behind the scenes working joint task intelligence operations with a former high-ranking CIA officer and his FBI partners to break up multiple terrorist cells and networks in NYC and surrounding areas.  Vinny describes the clear and present danger our law enforcement officers have to embrace every day to protect us from the baddest of the bad criminals and terrorists that walk our streets.   As always, email me directly at rhoughton@mrfairfax.com with your thoughts.   My job every episode is to break down and deconstruct the "War on Talent" in 15 minutes or less so that YOU can win this battle through a greater understanding of how clients, candidates, and recruiters work together.