Small Business Profile: Gary and Susan Hewitt with Southland Insurance Agency

Susan and Gary Hewitt, owners of Southland Insurance Agency 

Small Business Profile | Shop Small Business Saturday Week 2019

Saturday is Small Business Saturday. Every year we try to highlight some local business owners leading up to that day. Today's feature will be with Susan and Gary Hewitt with Southland Insurance Agency.

Southland Insurance is located in Carrollton and is one of the leading insurance agencies in the West Georgia area. Southland is a professional organization dedicated to providing the best insurance coverage protection at a reasonable price. With almost 40 years of experience in the insurance business and 33 years with their own business, owners Susan and Gary Hewitt have been been a big part of this community and have lots of satisfied customers!

This dynamic duo represents a carefully selected group of financially sound, reputable insurance companies, which helps them expertly match each of their customers with an insurance plan that meets their needs, as well as their budget.  They do not believe in a "one size fits all" approach to insurance.  Susan is the President and oversees the total operation of the agency but prefers selling and building relationships with her customers.  Gary plays a mixed role in the business from sales, marketing and finances to technology and communications.  Both are heavily involved in the local community and with our Chamber.  Gary has served on our Executive Committee and Board of Directors and has co-chaired the Business Development Committee for many years and Susan is on our board currently. 

You'll love what they have to offer with superior customer service and attention to detail. They are just plain good folks doing their best to take care of their clients each and every day.  What you expect from your insurance agent.  Call them today at  770. 834.7631. 

Products and Services - Personal and Commercial Insurance policies including auto insurance, general liability, workman's compensation, homeowner's insurance, health and life insurance, disability, etc..

Q & A with the Hewitts

Why do you do what you do?

When Susan mentioned opening an insurance agency we didn't do what would be recommended today and analyze the market and put a growth plan in place.  We took the gamble and invested.

What initially inspired you to make the leap and start your own business?  

We believed we could do it better and less expensive for our clients. 

What do you do on a daily basis to grow as an entrepreneur? 

Review the trade publications and study the best practices that apply to all generations.

What entrepreneurial hacks have you developed to stay focused and productive in your day-today?

Keep the funnel full-  and work to grow through helping others.

What do you think is the biggest issue for small business owners?  

Employees and cash flow

What are your main performance indicators?

Satisfied customers who send you referrals.

What have you taken away from your small business experience that you can give as advice for young entrepreneurs?

Don't expect overnight success!  It's a marathon,  not a sprint.

Besides money, what are your favorite ways to compensate people?

Time off and flexible schedule when necessary to take care of the family.

Questions just for fun...

If you had to battle a giant, what weapon would you use and why?

Slingshot and rock.  It worked before!