When it comes to life, Hayden Middleton prefers to build upon solid traditions. He intends to remain in his hometown as he begins his own chapter with a career and family. He looks to the influence of the older generations who helped shape his work ethic. And he looks to the solid foundation established by the Farm Bureau Insurance Agency as he continues to work his way up the ladder in his career.
As an insurance agent with the local branch, Middleton intends to give back to his community through service and reliability.
“Farm Bureau has a long tradition of taking care of people, and I just want to continue that tradition,” Middleton, 25, said. “It’s about being there for folks in their time of need, helping folks save money. They put a lot of faith and trust in us as agents, and I want to build upon that through the business.”
Middleton was raised in Yazoo County, attending Benton Academy his whole life. After graduating from the local academy, he earned an associate degree from East Mississippi Community College before heading off to Mississippi State University.
But Middleton found himself returning to his hometown, eager to embark on his next chapter.
“I was working on the farm with my uncle, David Shipp, for awhile before I took a job with AGUP equipment,” he said. “I was an online sales coordinator, which was a new position. But I was in charge of generating qualified leads from online advertisement on wholesale equipment.”
Middleton then ventured over to Shivers Buildings, where he sold carports, storage buildings and tiny homes. But it was phone call about a year later that shifted his direction.
“Lance Davis called me and told me about a position available here at Farm Bureau,” Middleton said. “It all seemed to fall into place, and I joined here as an insurance agent.”
It is the relationship he builds with the customers and the community that Middleton finds the most rewarding aspect of his career.
“I love dealing with folks to not only save them money but in service to make sure they are taken care of,” he said. “I enjoy helping people. Insurance is something everybody must have, but I like dealing with folks from all walks of life. You learn a lot about people in this kind of position.”
Challenges arise from time to time, ranging from unforeseen circumstances or fluctuating rates. But it the personal relationship Middleton has with his customers that assist in overcoming those challenges.
“Helping your customers understand and show them that it is important that you take care of them is how you deal with those challenges,” he said.
Outside of work, Middleton enjoys playing golf. And he recently became engaged to Kylee Pounds, who is currently pursuing her master’s degree.
Middleton intends to marry, start a family and continue to work his way up the ladder at Farm Bureau. And the future? He doesn’t plan on leaving his hometown.
“I would like to build a house here,” he said. “Yazoo is home for me. I love Yazoo and the Benton area. You find that you pretty much know everybody. If you don’t, they know somebody you know. You always have connections. I wouldn’t have it any other way. It is a great community.”
