Our world is much different than it was just two years ago. Things have changed, and many of these changes are here to stay. We all must adapt to a different way of managing our personal and business lives and finances. Having a high-value insurance agent can help you manage these uncertain times.
Selecting your insurance agent is the most important action you can undertake regarding your personal or business insurance. We like the phrase your insurance is only as good as your agent because it tells the story that the coverage you select depends on your agent’s skill and ability to provide the solutions you need.
Different Kinds of Agents
A captive agent is one who is employed by an insurance company.
These kinds of agents represent direct writers. A captive agent is an insurance agent who only works for one insurance company.
The insurance company pays a captive agent, and they may be a full-time employee or an independent contractor.
An independent agent is someone who owns or operates a small local business. They have relationships with many insurance companies but do not work for them. This allows the independent agent to work for the policyholder.
Qualities of a High-Value Insurance Agent
- Trustworthy
- They put people before policies
- A good Listener and responsive
- Has the experience and technical knowledge needed to offer real solutions
- Has good people skills
- The desire to teach you rather than sell you
- Someone who views insurance as a promise, not a product
- A good agent will want to develop a relationship with you, not just sell you then move on.
Ask for information
Consider this as an interview in which you are selecting a representative and an agency.
- For how long they have been in business?
- What, if any, certifications do they hold? Consider agents who hold advanced designations such as Chartered Property Casualty Underwriter (CPCU), Certified Insurance Counselor (CIC), Chartered Life Underwriter (CLU), or Accredited Insurance Adviser (AAI) (AAI).
- What kinds of businesses do they represent?
- How will the renewal processes be implemented?
- Will you have a personal account manager?
- How will they assist in the event of a claim?
- How much experience do they have with risks comparable to yours?
- How much do they charge for services, and how much do they earn?
- Request that they conduct an audit of your current policies and make recommendations?
Remember your insurance coverage is only as good as the agent who offered it. Having a high-value agent will help you navigate successfully through these uncertain time