Joining the market as an agent can be super easy, and an amazing opportunity. Anyone has time to do it, but to do it the right way requires self-knowledge, research, finesse, and, of course, a license.
We’ll talk more about licenses over later. Acquiring one properly should only take a few weeks, after that, the wide world of insurance opens up for you! It can be daunting without a good starting point.
Self-Knowledge
Why do you want to become an agent? This should be the first question you ask yourself. Your answer can range from “helping people protect their property” to “gainful employment.” There is no shame in seeking a job for the money, and this industry can pay well.
After that, you should ask yourself if you have what it takes. An agent is the persuasive face of the company, driving profits by being an expert salesperson. If you’re extroverted, thrive in competitive environments, and are goal-oriented, then half the battle is won.
Research
Before you begin your journey, research the industry thoroughly so you know where you’re going and how to get there.
The first decision is your preferred type of agent. You can become either captive or independent, but as you look, you’ll see even those terms can intertwine. A captive agent is one hired by one agency to sell their specific insurance whereas an independent agent has more independence.
Basically, this step can narrow down which licenses you’ll look for and which jobs you can apply for. For example, if you choose captive, then you should look into which companies in your area are hiring for new agents.
After this, looking into each insurance is a must. Commercial insurance is a popular choice with many coverage types to learn about. Try to focus on one. The more knowledgeable you are about something, the more people are inclined to trust you.
Special note: Each state has its own requirements, so make sure to check your location’s specific regulations.
Finesse
An agent is a salesperson. So, one skillset to build even before you begin the licensing journey is how to market well. This includes more than just in-person conversation. For a new industry agent, learning how to market well online is a top-dollar skill. Acquiring a college education in finance or sales can help you here.
If you add brand awareness, social media marketing, and other web-based marketing platforms to your resume, your appeal as a candidate will grow. Insurance companies will be on the lookout for people that are not only good at closing deals but also bringing in new people.
Your journey as an agent can be a simple process. Many courses online offer free advice on building your market, apply those to your passions, stay consistent, and build your knowledge base, then you’ll become the next top agent on the market.
