Richard M. Horowitz, after studying history and political science and obtaining an MBA, founded Management Brokers, Inc. in 1974 and has been influential in the life insurance industry. He emphasizes the importance of mentoring junior staff to prepare them for greater responsibilities, encouraging a dedication to learning and adaptability to new techniques. Horowitz believes that valuable learning experiences come from senior employees and urges protégés to take advantage of mentoring opportunities.

2. After studying history and political science at
the University of Nevada and University of
Connecticut, Richard M. Horowitz received his
MBA from Pepperdine University in 1974. That
same year, Richard Horowitz established
Management Brokers, Inc., a life insurance
sales company. In addition to having placed in
excess of $10 billion of life insurance over the
course of his career, Richard M. Horowitz has
mentored thousands of employees and
students.

3. As senior employees begin to retire or seek other
opportunities, it is critical that they prepare junior
staff members for greater responsibilities. Such
staff members should demonstrate a dedication to
learning the proverbial tricks of the trade from their
first day. They should also possess not only a
desire to achieve results, but an interest in the
specific processes by which they might do so as
well.
While a hardworking, independent nature can be
beneficial, protégés should also be willing to ask for
help when necessary and accept constructive
criticism when it is offered.

4. Moreover, in an ever-changing business
landscape, mentees must demonstrate a
willingness and ability to adopt new, efficient
techniques that may differ from procedures to
which they have grown accustomed. Finally,
protégés must simply be able to take the time to
meet with mentors and take advantage of the
learning opportunities that are presented to
them. Learning from a tested senior employee
is a valuable experience, one that a worthy
protégé will not take for granted.