The Dialogue with David Anderson

This feature is a question-and-answer session with a new Blount County Chamber member. So here we go with our 21st installment visiting with David Anderson, agent/owner of Shelter Insurance, which sells insurance while providing excellent customer service before, during and after the sale.

 

How did you get started in the insurance business? “I needed a career that provided me with the flexibility to be more involved with my ever growing and always on the go family. With five kids, someone always needed to be somewhere. That initially happened when an agent with another insurance company solicited my business. I became an insured with that company, then shortly after, went to work for them. I am so thankful for that opportunity and that three-year experience has made it possible for me now to be my own boss, something I never thought I would do.”

 

How did you gain the necessary skills? “I have always enjoyed talking to people and felt comfortable in many different settings. I try to engage in what people are doing and saying and I think that creates a comfort level that allows the sale to take care of itself. I have never wanted to be a “sales person” as many people typically think of sales people. I also have had many years of experience in supervising/managing people and different other responsibilities giving me the comfort and confidence to make sound decisions.”

 

Who has been your greatest influence? “My wife Shelly. We will celebrate 20 years of marriage in May and she has supported me and encouraged me every step of the way especially now as a business owner. I was a little apprehensive to take the leap and kept asking “what if I fail?” She finally looked at me and said, “what if you don’t!” That really helped solidify the decision to take a risk on myself.”

 

Describe your customers. “People who want to be helped and listened to. People who have kids, and cars, and a house and toys who want to know I am going to help walk them through the process of making sure they have the coverage they need and the value they deserve. Many of them are local folks I have known for many years.”

 

What do you enjoy about running your business? “I enjoy the flexibility of running the business. I enjoy seeing and talking to my customers. They know when they come in or call, they will get to sit down and talk to me. I also enjoy being able to bring my family to help around the office. Sometimes, in emergencies, my kids have been able to come to work with me when there was no other option. I also like knowing I have helped someone and them trusting me to give them accurate and honest information.”