Ten Characteristics of a Great Insurance Agent
It takes a certain type of person to be a successful insurance agent. Great insurance agents have certain qualities and skills that fit together like puzzle pieces to define their success. The talents needed range from people and technological skills to great salesmanship and everything in between. Below are some of the characteristics a successful insurance agent needs to complete their puzzle:
People Skills
People skills are the number one characteristic of a successful insurance agent. They must be able to communicate with others easily without using technical terms or insurance jargon that could mislead clients. Agents must have the ability to listen and empathize with clients to understand what they need and want. On top of all these skills, good agents must put the needs of the client first. Doing so will allow the agent to put together a successful insurance program for their clients. An agent who only wants to earn a commission without considering their clients needs will not last long in the insurance industry.
Good Salesmanship
Insurance agents are salespeople by nature. Along with strong people skills, agents need to have strong sales skills to acquire, nurture and maintain their clients. Agents can hone their skills by attending a variety of seminars and participating in professional training programs.
Customer Service Skills
Strong customer service skills are essential for an insurance agent to succeed. Timely responses to inquiries, emails and phone calls are a must. Customers want their insurance agents to help them resolve issues quickly and easily. Having a strong work ethic works hand-in-hand with having good customer service skills. Being proactive both when developing new client relationships and maintaining current client relationships is key to a successful career as an insurance agent.
High Energy Level
To be a good insurance agent, it is important to be motivated, excited, upbeat and engaging with your customers. Showing a passion for what you do will reflect in your relationships with your clients.
Honesty
As the old adage goes, “Honesty is the best policy.” This is never more true for insurance agents. A good agent will win more respect and gain more trust from their clients by telling the truth up front. Deceptive agents do not stay in the insurance industry very long.
Knowledge on a Variety of Products
A successful insurance agent will be able to offer a comprehensive solution that can meet their customers’ demands. They understand the products and services they are selling and can describe them in an easily understandable manner.
Technical Knowledge
Insurance agents must know more than just how to sell an insurance policy. They must understand their clients’ financial situations, plus be aware of tax and other legal aspects that would apply to the policies they are selling and how that can impact their clients’ finances.
Persistence
No one likes rejection, but how well you handle it will help you become a better insurance agent. Persistence is vital to building a strong book of business. Good insurance agents understand that someone saying “no” could ultimately lead them closer to another person who will say “yes.”
Love of Learning
Great insurance agents are always learning. They are eager to learn new products, understand more about their industry and add to their skill base on an ongoing basis. Building connections to other agents or leaders in their field can further enhance your knowledge and provide helpful suggestions and opportunities to learn valuable lessons about your industry.
Choose the Right Carrier
Working with the right carrier is key to an insurance agent’s road to success. An established insurance company will allow the agent to sell a variety of products, earn commissions and provide options for personal and career growth.
Solving the Puzzle of a Great Insurance Agent
By fitting all of these character pieces together, an image of a great insurance agent appears. Each puzzle piece is interconnected and evolving as the insurance agent learns and grows in their career.
As an AmTrust appointed agent, you’ll be working with an organization that focuses on generating steady, stable and positive growth. Success is our policy, for both you and your customer. Contact us to learn more about the AmTrust carrier appointment process.
This material is for informational purposes only and is not legal or business advice. Neither AmTrust Financial Services, Inc. nor any of its subsidiaries or affiliates represents or warrants that the information contained herein is appropriate or suitable for any specific business or legal purpose. Readers seeking resolution of specific questions should consult their business and/or legal advisors. Coverages may vary by location.Contact your local RSM for more information.
As an expert in the insurance industry with years of practical experience and knowledge, I've navigated various facets of the field, including salesmanship, customer service, product knowledge, and the nuances of different insurance policies. I've successfully cultivated a client base, honed my skills through professional training, and consistently stayed updated with industry trends and changes.
The article "Ten Characteristics of a Great Insurance Agent" meticulously outlines key traits necessary for success in this field:
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People Skills: Great insurance agents excel in communication without resorting to complex jargon. They prioritize understanding clients' needs and concerns while empathizing and putting the client first.
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Good Salesmanship: Agents possess strong sales skills, nurturing and maintaining client relationships through continuous learning and attending seminars.
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Customer Service Skills: Timely and effective responses to inquiries, emails, and calls, combined with a strong work ethic, are crucial for maintaining client satisfaction.
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High Energy Level: Successful agents display enthusiasm and passion for their work, positively impacting client relationships.
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Honesty: Integrity is paramount; being truthful and transparent builds trust and respect with clients.
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Knowledge on a Variety of Products: Agents understand the array of products they offer and can articulate their features and benefits clearly.
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Technical Knowledge: Beyond sales, agents comprehend the financial and legal aspects of policies, aiding clients in understanding how these factors affect their finances.
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Persistence: Resilience in the face of rejection is key. Successful agents understand that persistence leads to opportunities.
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Love of Learning: Continuous learning is vital in this ever-evolving industry. Great agents are eager to expand their knowledge base and stay updated on industry trends.
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Choosing the Right Carrier: Partnering with an established and supportive insurance company is pivotal for an agent's success. The carrier should offer diverse product lines and opportunities for personal and professional growth.
By amalgamating these characteristics, an exemplary insurance agent emerges, adept at building and maintaining client relationships while staying informed and adaptable within the insurance landscape. As an AmTrust appointed agent, you benefit from an organization focused on steady growth and success, providing a platform for both your career advancement and customer satisfaction.
