TPI Advisors At Home, But Never Alone

with Adrienne Lem Burkett

TPI is riding the wave of the home-based agent phenomenon. They currently have 850 agents and expect double digit growth next year. I had the chance to meet some of these enthusiastic advisors at the Toronto session of TPI’s recent 8 city tour summit. Whether I was speaking with a veteran or someone brand new to the industry, it was clear that this group of professionals were dedicated to their business and development and excited to be there.

Approximately 100 TPI advisors attended the day-long event that included a Sandals Certification workshop early a.m., followed by supplier presentations and an evening tradeshow. Guests were also briefed on TPI’s latest initiatives and programs.

According to TPI V.P. Tim Morgan, the company is putting a focus on technology by improving the individual agent’s template website and other areas of their intranet. They have also introduced programs to promote sales development such as their partnership with David’s Bridal and the appointment of their 3 Regional Sales Managers.

“We’ve been focusing on our sales centric approach, sales development on the advisor level - to be tactical and to create specific programs for our staff on the ground,” he said. “The Regional Sales Managers help take our corporate objectives to a local level for our advisors. Our advisors have all the passion in the world, they have the knowledge. But working from home, they need the assistance and support of our Regional Sales Managers.”

“It’s been great to meet with the head office team and mix n’ mingle with our colleagues,” said Yvonne Stafford, who’s been with TPI for 5 years, but in the industry for 30. “More importantly, we’ve been receiving a lot of marketing and sales tips – all new things to make us competitive as home-based agents and to make us feel comfortable working from home.”

TPI's Penny Martin, Director of Sales & Tim Morgan, V.P.