Business View Magazine - January 2024

shared success. NAVIGATING THE TIDES OF THE INSURANCE INDUSTRY Although operating in an industry known for its stability and resilience, Christensen Group does not rest on its laurels as it navigates through various economic climates. Christensen discusses the company’s approach to forecasting demand in a mature industry. “Insurance is pretty recession resilient, not proof, but resilient,” he explains. He distinguishes between different types of insurance products, noting how some, like worker’s compensation, are statutory requirements, while others, like cyber liability insurance, are more discretionary. Despite the mandatory nature of many insurance products, he acknowledges that the industry isn’t immune to economic downturns, citing a 9% decrease during the 2008-2009 recession. However, he points out,“Our best years are okay, our worst years are okay. It’s a steady industry from a revenue forecasting standpoint.” He also highlights the pivotal role of Christensen Group’s technical sales force in driving the company’s growth. He stresses the importance We’ve been recognized as the Best Places to Work nationally, in the insurance sector, and locally in Minneapolis-Saint Paul Business Journal. These recognitions are a collective result of our employees feeling that their work and input are valued. THE POWER OF DIALOGUE, THE STRENGTH OF PROTECTION In the heart of America, relationships and trust run deep. Those same Midwestern values have helped Sentry protect businesses across the United States for more than 115 years. Today, personalized care and expert conversations continue to reflect Sentry’s “Right by You” philosophy. “What we do goes beyond insurance coverages. It’s about building trust that we’ll be there for your business when the unexpected happens.We do that by problem-solving with our agents and customizing a plan for our shared customers,” said Tim Zepnick, Regional Executive at Sentry. That message resonates with Christensen Group, Minnesota’s largest locally-owned insurance agency. “We’re a relationship-driven agency. It’s the cornerstone of our business. We take the time to know our customers,” explains Charlie Christensen, President of Christensen Group. “It helps to have an insurer like Sentry who shares the same values. They listen. It’s an open dialogue. When we pick up the phone, we know they’ll answer and be ready to help.” Together, Sentry and Christensen Group provide peace of mind to hundreds of businesses. “Christensen Group helps us fulfill our Right by You promise. They understand the importance of people and relationships—and they understand the businesses we protect at Sentry,” said Zepnick. 138 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 11, ISSUE 01 CHRISTENSEN INSURANCE GROUP