The personality of the Insurance Agent
Have a discussion with potential agents. Describe your circumstance and request a quote. Just because you asked doesn’t mean you have to cooperate. You can use this opportunity to learn more about how they operate and determine whether you feel at ease using them.
1. There are 2 types of Insurance Agents:
A. Independent Agents – These are individuals who run a small business that serves as a representative or affiliate of various insurance providers.
B. Direct Insurance Agents – A direct insurance firm sells to you directly, generally online and without an agent.
Best choice:
Pick an independent agent since they can provide you with the greatest pricing and coverage for your needs. They contain all the information necessary to compare insurance firms. They offer a range of insurance and financial products, such as long-term care, health, life, and casualty insurance. They serve all of your insurance needs.
2. Credentials
When evaluating what coverage and restrictions a client needs to safeguard their family and assets, a skilled insurance agent can offer guidance. An insurance agent with credentials is guaranteed to be a professional in the insurance industry and has documentation of their qualifications, authority, or competency.
Nice to Have:
- CFP – Certified Financial Planner.
- CLU – Chartered Life Underwriter
- CPCU – Chartered Property & Casualty Underwriter
- ChFC – Chartered Financial Consultant
- PFS – Personal Financial Specialist
- CIC – Certified Insurance Counselor
- ARM – Associate in Risk Management
Licensing
Make sure an insurance agent is licensed to offer insurance before purchasing insurance from them. It is comparable to a patient visiting a doctor, who must first obtain a license before writing prescriptions. To sell policies, insurance agents must be licensed by their respective states. To sell property and casualty insurance as opposed to life and health insurance, certain states require different licenses.
3. Client Feed Backs
Check to determine whether the agent has ever received complaints against them as well as their license status. You can check the NAIC’s CIS for the company or contact your state’s insurance department. You can learn if the agent has been the subject of any complaints from the insurance authority. You might also inquire with the Better Business Bureau to discover if any clients have expressed complaints or praise regarding the agents you’re thinking about.
4. Ask Questions
When looking for an agent, it is acceptable to have questions. In fact, while choosing who you want to work with, you should be asking questions. Suitable inquiries include:
- What specialties do you have?
- How far can you go? Are you nearby? Statewide? Nationwide?
- How long have you worked in my sector? When did you start writing this kind of insurance?
- Do you have references from past clients?
- How long has your company been around?
- What number of businesses do you represent? Who are they?
Of course, there are many things to take into account when selecting an insurance agent. When entrusting someone to give you the greatest coverage for your business needs, pay attention to the most crucial details. Although switching agents is always an option, it is much better to conduct preliminary research to discover the best insurance partner.
