As questions continue to loom around health care reform and its future remains uncertain, Rina Tikia, president of Tikia Consulting in Metairie, La., understands that her clients need a knowledgeable, dedicated partner more than ever. Leaving the office at 7 or 8 p.m. is not uncommon for her, she says, and clients are welcome to call her at any time, whether that happens to be during a late night or weekend.

"To be successful in this profession, you have to be very dedicated and have a good attitude," Tikia says. "I'm available 24-7. I have never lost a client due to poor service."

Of course, considering the ever-changing benefits environment, Tikia strives to stay current on all regulations and industry news. While there always seems to be a learning curve, brokers cannot afford to become complacent when it comes to knowledge, Tikia says. Employers still have a lot of questions surrounding benefits in relation to health care reform, and they rely upon their brokers to design the most effective plan that is compliant with all current regulations.