I was recently afforded the opportunity to sit in on a small gathering of some of the nation's top brokers and benefits professionals. Hosted by frequent Benefits Selling contributor, Kevin Trokey, the meeting was all about one thing: getting better.

Early on, I noticed this group was fully committed to the things we hear about so often in this industry. Rather than cowering in fear or clinging to the way things have always been, they were looking to the future.

Several themes developed over the three days. Here are a few that I think every broker should hear:

• This is the greatest time to be a broker. Opportunities for success are still all around you; they just look different.

• Communication is key to broker success, but it doesn't just happen – it must be purposeful.

• To remain relevant, brokers must leverage technology. Instead of fearing the disruptors, brokers must emulate their aggressiveness and find ways to make technology work for them.

As Trokey noted, ongoing communication with clients is more important than ever, because it reminds them of the many ways that brokers provide value. Then, when someone does come around offering the latest shiny new thing, clients will truly understand what they'd be giving up by leaving. “Nothing is more damning to your future success than silence,” Trokey told the room. Sounds like a good bumper sticker.