Chamber Chat with Patrick Torma, Goosehead Insurance

The Chamber is committed to telling the stories of our members. Chamber Chat is a regular series profiling our members. We love great stories about how our members are benefitting through their membership with the Chamber. That’s our goal!

In this Chamber Chat, learn more about Patrick Torma, Agency Owner with Goosehead Insurance. Read about how the Chamber has helped Patrick in terms of business growth and connecting with the LGBTQ consumer market. Patrick attributes his success to consistently attending Chamber events, getting to know at least one new person, and building strong relationships through the Chamber.

Tell us more about Goosehead Insurance and the products you offer?

Goosehead Insurance is the largest independent agency in the state of Texas. We provide homeowners, auto and commercial insurance. My agency is located in East Downtown, and we offer coverage throughout the entire Houston area and state. I’ve been in the insurance business for 10 years now and bring a lot of experience to the table when helping my clients find a customized policy.

When it comes to insurance services there are many providers in the marketplace.  What sets your company apart? 

We offer our clients the power of choice. We are able to shop your policies with over 20 reputable insurers that you would be familiar with, including Travelers, Progressive and Safeco, just to name a few. Close to 60 percent of the time I am able to offer an insurance policy with savings. Let’s face it, insurance companies regularly raise rates. With Goosehead, I have the capability of shopping your policy when that happens, and if we find savings, then we switch the policy. The large insurance companies do not offer that flexibly and choice.   

How long have you been a member of the Greater Houston LGBT Chamber of Commerce?

I’ve been a member of the Greater Houston LGBT Chamber for two years.

Why did you join the Chamber?

I joined the Chamber to connect with other LGBT business owners and leaders in the community after hearing about it through a friend who works at Outsmart. I’ve networked all over Houston and the Chamber is extremely welcoming to prospective members and visitors, and that of course helped.

You’ve shared that the Chamber has been great for your business and a good return on your membership investment (ROI).  Can you share more about your success with the Chamber?

The Chamber has been a great place for me grow my business not only with Chamber members, but with our community overall. Early on I decided to show up to every Brewing Up Breakfast and found it as a good way to brand my business within the community and ask for business. The breakfast event has grown tremendously so the opportunity to meet more people has also increased.  

I attribute my success to the consistency of going to events and getting to know at least one new person each time. It’s important to remember the purpose of the Chamber is to grow businesses and revenue, so remember to ask for the business!  Also, visibility on the Chamber’s Member Directory has been hugely helpful in terms of new business as well. 

Why do you think it’s important for LGBTQ business owners to have a concentrated voice?

Because our voices count! We are vital members of the U.S. economy. Together, our voices are stronger as we advocate for equality.

What’s advice would you share for other business owners who are thinking about joining the Chamber? 

If you are thinking about joining the Chamber I would encourage you to come to the next Brewing Up Business or Happy Hour. Find myself or some other Chamber members and we’d be happy to introduce you around!  The Brewing Up Business event will give you the opportunity to share your elevator pitch to showcase your business and services.

Do you think there are unique aspects or challenges as an LGBTQ business owner/LGBTQ-owned business?  

A unique aspect of being an LGBTQ business owner is that we’ve got a niche audience. Many people in our community want to spend their money with someone who can relate to them and who understands their goals and challenges. I love getting to know Chamber members and clients alike. We share personal stories and find that many times we have a lot in common!    

Now some fun questions!  Barbecue or Mexican?  And where do you go for it? 

Both! My favorite BBQ joint in Houston is Pinkertons Barbecue on Airline. I love their brisket and jalapeno cheese rice! My favorite place to enjoy Mexican food and a margarita on a nice afternoon is La Mexicana. Conveniently located in Montrose, they have wonderful service.

Anything else you want to mention about your business?

I would love the opportunity to bid on your insurance policies! Many times, I’m able to save clients several hundred to thousands of dollars. 

Patrick also generously volunteers his time on the Chamber’s Programming & Events committee.  Thank you, Patrick!

Goosehead Insurance is the largest independent agency in the state of Texas. Goosehead Insurance provides homeowners, auto and commercial insurance. 

Visit Goosehead Insurance to learn more about Patrick and the insurance products offered.

Like Goosehead Insurance, Patrick Torma on Facebook.