We all have had about 5 months to adjust to the "new normal," which is anything but normal, based on 2019 and historical standards. And that certainly applies to open enrollment 2020, which definitely will not be business as usual. So we would like to discuss the different practical, logical elements that benefits advisors, carriers, enrollment firms, and employers need to consider this year. You may be saying to yourself, why do we need to do anything differently? Why can't we just handle the fourth quarter this year like we have done for the last decade? Really?

The entire world and the way it functions has changed, perhaps indefinitely. Your business operations have changed. Undoubtedly your clients are operating in an entirely different manner and each likely has uniquely adapted to the new local reality. This is no time to play the ostrich game. It's time for a reality check and some pro-active planning. Your clients are confused, nervous and stressed out, understandably so. They are counting on you to provide them with solid advice and counsel. And it doesn't matter what your current role is in our industry, you need to be part of the solution. Otherwise, you are part of the problem which will result in employee confusion, lack of engagement, dissatisfaction, and potentially financial hardship. Now, hopefully, you have a sense of urgency about this matter.