Insurance agents act as intermediaries and provide insurance buyers with information about policies and options from different carriers. They typically have contracts with insurers that specify which procedures they can offer.
Some agents work for a single company (captive agents), while others operate independently. The type of agent you consult depends on your needs.
Check the License
It’s essential to check the insurance agency’s license before purchasing a policy. Most States have an online area where you can look up agents and brokers to see if they are licensed to sell insurance in that State. You can also find out if there are any complaints against the agency. Using these tips and your instincts will help you find the best insurance agency Newark DE, for your needs.
Depending on the type of policy you are looking for, consider whether or not an agent is a captive agent (works only for one insurer) or an independent insurance agent who represents multiple companies. Captive agents are experts in their specific products, while independent insurance agencies can often provide a more comprehensive range of options for their clients.
Finally, ensure that the insurance agency you choose has a good track record in the industry. This will ensure that they can provide a quality service and will be around to assist you in the event of a claim.
Ask for Referrals
One of the most effective ways to attract new business is to ask existing clients for referrals. Ideally, you will ask them for referrals before they are in a claim or billing dispute. Still, you can also remind them that their friends and family could benefit from a comprehensive insurance policy.
Some insurance agents hesitate to ask for referrals, worrying they will appear pushy or annoying. But if you provide excellent customer service, asking for referrals should be a natural part of your relationship with the client.
Make it easy for clients to refer their friends and family by promoting your referral program on your website and social media. You can even offer referral incentives, such as discounts on their following policy or gift cards. However, you should always be aware of State laws regarding paying for referrals. Ensure you are not violating any regulations by offering incentives to your clients.
Look for Experience
When searching for an insurance agency, look for agents with extensive industry experience. They should be able to answer any questions and concerns about the various insurance policies available. Additionally, they should be able to communicate with clients and provide excellent customer service effectively.
To assess an agent’s level of experience, start by looking for professional designations such as Chartered Property and Casualty Underwriter (CPCU), Certified Insurance Counselor (CIC), or Chartered Life Underwriter (CLU). These advanced certifications indicate that an agent has committed themselves to furthering their knowledge in insurance.
Some also suggest hiring candidates for a company that provides training programs or other career development initiatives, such as Enterprise Rent-a-Car, which offers sales apprenticeships, restoration companies, and mortgage lenders. These employees often have a high retention rate and can fit your agency well. They can also serve as mentors to new hires in your agency, which will increase their value.
Compare Quotes
Several online insurance agencies allow you to compare quotes from different providers. However, not all of these websites are created equal. Some have been shown to sell your personal information to third parties. Before entering, always check whether a quote-comparison website will safeguard your data.
Streamline your search by finding an agency with adequate experience in the type of coverage you need. For example, if you want business insurance, work with an agency with experience providing coverage for companies in your industry or with your type of risk.
In addition to having extensive knowledge of insurance coverage, a good agency should also be able to help you decipher industry jargon and make informed decisions about your policy. Insureon agents, for instance, can explain complex coverages in simple terms. They can also help you compare quotes for business insurance from top-rated U.S. carriers and provide a personalized plan in less than 24 hours.