Hello, NEMT Team! It’s Coach Willena McGee here, and today we need to talk about something very real that I’m seeing happen more and more in this industry: broker dependency. This is something that many new NEMT entrepreneurs fall into, and unfortunately, it’s a trap that can lead to financial struggle, burnout, and in some cases, losing everything you’ve worked so hard to build.
But don’t worry—we’re going to dive into what broker dependency is, how you can avoid it, and if you’re already in it, how you can turn things around. Let’s get real and get you on a path to success.
What Is Broker Dependency?
I get calls every week from individuals who have invested their seed money into NEMT online courses. These courses typically get you set up with a broker and insurance, and at first, everything seems great! You’re getting trips, the van is moving, and the money is coming in. But then, after about a year or two, reality starts to hit:
“I’m making just enough to pay for my van, driver, and insurance. I’m generating revenue, but I’m not actually keeping any of it. Where are my six figures?”
Suddenly, you realize: “I’m broker dependent.” This means that if your broker cuts rates, changes terms, or terminates the contract, you lose everything: your van, your business, and all the time and energy you’ve invested. It’s a scary place to be, and I hope and pray that if you’re reading this blog, you’ve found it before that happens.
Are You Set Up Backwards?
Too many of you are being set up backwards in this industry. And I get it—it looks like everyone is following the same blueprint, so it must be the right way, right? Wrong. Just because something is popular doesn’t mean it’s the best way to build a sustainable business.
The Bible tells us: “Go in through the narrow gate, because broad is the gate and spacious is the road leading off into destruction, and many are going in through it. Whereas narrow is the gate and cramped the road leading off into life, and few are finding it.”
In other words, just because it’s the path most people are taking doesn’t mean it leads to success. In fact, for many, it leads to burnout, debt, and broker dependency. We have to stop following the crowd and start building businesses the right way.
How to Avoid Broker Dependency
If you’re already broker dependent, you don’t have much time to fix it. Businesses that hit a cash flow crisis in year two or three usually have about 90 days to pivot before things start to crumble. But the good news? You can fix it! You can escape the broker trap and build something strong and sustainable. It just takes commitment and a willingness to invest in yourself and your business.
Here are the three things you need to do right now:
- Develop a Solid Business Plan
- You need a plan that identifies your unique selling point. What sets you apart from other NEMT providers? Why should customers choose you? Having a clear niche will help you stand out and attract direct clients instead of relying on brokers.
- Create Financial Projections
- It’s time to get a grip on where your money is going. If you don’t know where the holes are in your finances, how can you plug them? Financial projections will show you exactly where your revenue is being lost and where you need to make adjustments.
- Invest in Digital Marketing
- Breaking free from brokers means attracting your own clients. Digital marketing is how you do that. Build your brand, target self-paying customers, and start filling your schedule with trips that you control. Yes, it takes time, but with the right strategy, it will pay off.
Need Help Turning Things Around?
Now, let’s be real: fixing a business that’s built on a shaky foundation isn’t easy. If you’re set up backwards, the cracks in your foundation may be too big for you to fix on your own. This is where one-to-one mentorship comes in.
I’ve helped countless NEMT entrepreneurs rebuild their businesses and escape the broker trap, and I can help you too. You don’t have to navigate this process alone.
If you’re ready to fix the cracks and build a strong, profitable NEMT business, visit www.nemtstartup.net and learn more about my one-to-one mentorship program. Together, we’ll rebuild your business from the ground up, starting with a solid plan and the right strategies to succeed.
Final Thoughts
If you’re reading this and realizing you’re broker dependent, don’t panic. But don’t wait either. The longer you wait, the harder it becomes to make the necessary changes. The best thing you can do is take action now. Start by developing a plan, getting control of your finances, and investing in marketing. And if you need help, I’m here.
Remember, success isn’t about following the crowd—it’s about following the right path. Let’s walk it together.
Thank you for taking the time to read this, and I look forward to helping you break free from the broker trap!
- Coach Willena McGee
Call to Action
Ready to take control of your NEMT business? Visit www.nemtstartup.net for more information on one-to-one mentorship and get started today.