Eddie Young

Eddie Young, Tobey & Merrill Insurance

 I’m a Commercial Lines Manager at Tobey & Merrill Insurance in Hampton. I grew up in Portsmouth and have always had strong ties to the Seacoast. Most of what I do is helping local businesses, property owners, contractors, restaurants, nonprofits, and families make sure they have the right insurance program in place. I come from a family insurance background, so I’ve always appreciated how much of this business comes down to trust, relationships, and being there when people need you. 

Why did you decide to join the Chamber?

I joined the Chamber because I wanted to stay connected with the local business community and be more involved beyond just the day-to-day work. Having grown up in Portsmouth and now working with businesses throughout the Seacoast, it felt like a natural fit. The Chamber does a great job bringing people together who care about the area and want to support each other. specifically, puts into local businesses having the opportunity to connect with each other and also be able to get their own word and message out to the public is incredible. I have never felt so supported, encouraged and welcomed into a city I once was a resident and now feel part of an even greater community of business ownership.

What is a piece of advice you have for people new to the Chamber or to networking?

My advice would be to not overthink it. Networking can feel a little awkward when you first start, but it gets much easier when you stop thinking of it as “networking” and just focus on having normal conversations with people. Show up, be yourself, ask questions, and follow up when you say you will. You don’t need to sell yourself every time you meet someone. A lot of the best relationships happen naturally over time. 

What is a connection you made through the Chamber that has resulted in something further?

One of the things I’ve appreciated about the Chamber is that a simple introduction or conversation at an event can lead to other opportunities down the road. I’ve met people at Morning Mixers and other Chamber events where the first conversation was just a quick introduction, but later turned into a business conversation, a referral, or another local connection. For me, that’s the value of being involved. It keeps you connected to the people and businesses that make the Seacoast what it is.   

Learn More

Reach out to Eddie via email.