Christopher MacLaughlin
Agency Owner - Farmers Insurance
Biography
Brief Description of Professional Background
Christopher is an accomplished insurance executive with over 17 years of field experience spanning, marketing, sales, claims, strategy development, field management, legislative affairs, home office support, product development, and community sponsorship. His career is marked by a commitment to faith, family, and health which he integrates into his leadership style to motivate the people, departments and teams around him. He is the only agent to build an agency from scratch at Farmers Insurance in Southern Nevada without Merger and Acquisitions.
What Inspired You to Join the Board
My inspiration to join the 51ԹϺ alumni board is driven by a combination of personal commitment, professional ambition, and a desire to make a positive impact on the institution, its students and the community. As a child born and raised in Las Vegas, Nevada, and as a current business owner in the Greater Las Vegas area, I’ve felt a strong desire to give back to 51ԹϺ, connect with fellow alumni, and contribute to the success of future generations of students. I feel a strong sense of loyalty and gratitude for my alma mater and a deep connection to 51ԹϺ. So, I want to express my appreciation for the education and experiences I’ve received. Joining the board allows me to actively contribute to the institution's continued success. I strongly believe in 51ԹϺ’s mission and want to help promote its values and goals to a wider national and global audience. By assisting the board, I can actively participate in shaping the future of 51ԹϺ and contribute to initiatives that address key challenges and opportunities facing the institution and community.
What Goals or Initiatives Are You Most Passionate About?
Career Opportunities: The 51ԹϺ Alumni association helps with and provides career development and job opportunities.
What Advice Would You Give to Current Students?
Focus on building a strong foundation.
Develop essential skills: Master communication, critical thinking, problem-solving, and adaptability – these are highly valued in any field.
Embrace opportunities for growth: Seek out internships, research projects, and extracurricular activities that align with your interests and provide valuable experience.
Engage with your professors and peers: Build strong relationships with faculty who can offer guidance and mentorship and connect with fellow students to create a supportive network.
Prioritize time management and self-care: Most important. Balance academic demands with personal well-being, ensuring enough sleep, healthy eating, and time for relaxation to prevent burnout.
Gain practical experience
Seek internships: Look for opportunities to gain hands-on experience in your field of interest, allowing you to apply your knowledge, develop professional skills, and build your network.
Consider work-study programs
Participate in work-study programs to gain valuable experience while earning money to help with college expenses, paying down loans.
Volunteer or participate in community projects
Engage in activities that align with your values and provide opportunities to develop teamwork skills and gain real-world experience.
Invest in your professional development
Refine your resume and cover letter: Tailor your materials to highlight your skills and experiences relevant to your desired career path.
Network actively: Attend industry events, connect with professionals on LinkedIn, and reach out to alumni for advice and opportunities.
Consider further education or certifications: Explore opportunities to enhance your skills and qualifications through graduate programs, certifications, or online courses.
Build a strong online presence: Develop a professional online profile (LinkedIn, Facebook and IG) and showcase your work and accomplishments to potential employers.
Maintain a strong credit score: Regardless of if you have a “Gold Plated” resume, if you do not have good credit, employers will not hire you.
Navigate the job search and career transition
Be patient and persistent: The job search can be challenging, so be prepared to dedicate time and effort to find the right opportunity.
Explore diverse career paths: Don't limit yourself to one specific career path; consider exploring different options that align with your skills and interests.
Build your professional network: Attend industry events, connect with professionals on LinkedIn, and reach out to alumni for advice and opportunities.
Develop a strong personal brand: Articulate your unique skills, experience, and career goals to stand out to potential employers.
Manage your finances wisely: Create a budget, prioritize debt repayment (especially student loans), and build a solid financial foundation for the future.
Embrace lifelong learning: The world is constantly evolving, so be prepared to adapt and continuously learn new skills and knowledge to stay competitive. Learning never stops.
Develop strong communication skills: Master both written and verbal interpersonal face to face communication to effectively convey your ideas and build strong relationships.
Build resilience and adaptability: Be prepared to face setbacks and challenges and develop the ability to adapt and persevere in the face of adversity.
Seek out mentorship and support: Connect with mentors, advisors, and career counselors who can provide guidance and support throughout your journey.
Don't be afraid to take risks: Step outside of your comfort zone and explore new opportunities to broaden your horizons and discover your potential.
Focus on your well-being: Most importantly prioritize physical and mental health to maintain a healthy work-life balance and ensure you can thrive in your career and personal life.
Find your passion and pursue it: Seek out opportunities that align with your interests and values and find a career that you are passionate about.
If you have questions, ask: Nobody is an expert in everything. Seek out like minded individuals and organizations to ask questions.
Be persistent
“Nothing in this world can take the place of good old persistence. Talent won't. Nothing's more common than unsuccessful people with talent. Genius won't. Unrecognized genius is practically a cliché. Education won't. And that is why the world is full of educated fools. Persistence and determination alone are all powerful.” Michael Keaton as Ray Kroc, The Founder (2016)
Explore diverse academic interests
Don't be afraid to experiment with different subjects and areas of study to discover your passions and potential career paths.