Allstate conducts an annual survey of its employees to obtain feedback on the effectiveness of leadership and the work environment. This voluntary, anonymous and confidential survey (called the Quality Leadership Measurement System) measures employee perceptions and behaviors that directly affect our business results. All employees, except officers, are invited to participate in QLMS, which is administered via the Internet and analyzed by Allstate’s human resources function with the assistance of an outside vendor.  One of the key measurements provided by QLMS is overall employee satisfaction. In 2007, the overall satisfaction rate among Allstate employees was 86%, compared with 87% in 2006. Historically, Allstate’s overall employee satisfaction rates have been in the high 80% range and average higher than industry benchmarks.

Each year, Allstate measures the effectiveness of its relationship with exclusive agency owners, and financial professionals and independent agency owners. In 2007, agency owner satisfaction decreased, reflecting a tougher competitive environment that led to lower compensation and growth. Teams across the company are working to improve the agency-company relationship by focusing on some of the issues and challenges that agencies shared in the 2007 survey.  Our relationship with agencies remains a top priority, and we will continue to deliver programs designed to support each agency while creating opportunities for ongoing dialogue.