Pros
The way the majority of employees (claims reps., underwriters, customer service) commit themselves to the success of the agents. Feeling like you are a part of a company that prides itself on its integrity. Knowing that the majority of its employees feel good about the contributions they make to the success of the organization. Claims service and the willingness of employees to build positive relationships in underwriting and claims department.
Cons
The agent culture. Feeling like you're an outsider if you don't identify with comments, jokes, and the overall point of view of the other agents. A verrrrry "good ol' boys" mentality amongst agents and agency managers. If you are a creative business mind then you'll definitely want to look elsewhere for an opportunity. If you don't think every agent who has achieved long term success at this company and in this location isn't two-faced or ready to throw you under the bus if you're not a part of the "club", you are wrong. I speak from a agents perspective here so don't get the wrong impression about other employees throughout the company. By in large, everyone I was immediately in contact with (in Lincoln and West Des Moines, IA) wants to help and does sincerely care about their position and the consequences of their actions/decisions. Be prepared to deal with agents who consistently undermine management, a billing system that will lose you clients, and poor decisions by upper management.