Do It Right, Always with Michael Silverman
Michael Silverman, CEO and President of Silver Lining Insurance, shares his timeless wisdom on leadership, ethics, and the importance of building trust in business. With nearly 40 years of experience and a legacy of nearly a century through his family’s insurance business, Michael provides a masterclass in holistic insurance practices that prioritize relationships and doing the right thing over short-term gains.
The Heart of Holistic Insurance
Michael’s approach to insurance is far from transactional. He emphasizes a holistic strategy that views each client’s world through three segments: protection, savings, and growth. This perspective ensures every facet of a client’s life is safeguarded, whether it’s personal, professional, or financial.
“We’re not product peddlers; we aim to be trusted advisors.”
For Michael, insurance isn’t just about selling policies. It’s about becoming an integral part of a client’s economic team—working alongside accountants, attorneys, and financial planners to deliver comprehensive solutions.
Building Trust, Not Transactions
Michael credits his success to a referral-based business model that revolves around meaningful relationships rather than cold calls or aggressive sales tactics. His mantra, “Do it right always,” is more than a business principle—it’s a philosophy that guides every client interaction.
“Relationships drive success in the insurance business.”
This trust-first mindset creates enduring connections with clients who know they can rely on Michael and his team in times of need.
Leadership Through Simplicity
Michael’s leadership lessons extend beyond the insurance world. His career is built on simple yet powerful principles:
- Ethics First: Success follows when you prioritize doing what’s right for clients.
- Continuous Adaptation: “Treat people the way they want to be treated” is a rule his business lives by, even adapting communication methods to client preferences.
- Empowering Teams: Building a knowledgeable, specialized team ensures clients receive expert advice across diverse insurance products.
“The secret sauce? ‘Please, thank you, and do it right every time.’”
From Mayor to Mentor
Michael’s unique journey includes serving as a mayor, where he honed his skills in community service and leadership. He shares how his political experience reinforced the value of selflessness and doing good for others without expecting immediate returns.
“Good people want to help others. That’s the foundation of my career.”
An Invitation to Learn and Grow
Michael Silverman’s story is more than just an inspiring career journey—it’s a blueprint for ethical leadership, long-term client relationships, and holistic insurance strategies. His philosophy of “Do it right, always” serves as a guiding principle for professionals across industries, proving that trust, integrity, and client-first service are the cornerstones of sustainable success.
From his commitment to being a true advisor rather than a product peddler to his emphasis on understanding each client’s unique needs, Michael exemplifies what it means to build a business rooted in purpose. His insights remind us that success isn’t just about financial growth—it’s about making a meaningful impact in the lives of clients, employees, and communities.
As you reflect on this conversation, consider how you can apply Michael’s leadership lessons in your own work. Are you prioritizing relationships over transactions? Are you truly listening to the needs of your clients or colleagues? And most importantly, are you doing it right, always?
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