Insurance can be complicated. If you’re someone that’s introverted, then the idea of networking may be overwhelming. There are a lot of ways to confront and overcome this. In the following blog, we’ll discuss some tips and tricks for those that aren’t excited about networking.
The Importance of Networking
Networking is one of the most important parts of starting an insurance business. It’s one of the best ways to find new clients and get your name out there. Especially if you’re new to the industry, it’s essential that you start building up name recognition.
If you’re going to start networking, there’s a few things you should keep in mind. If you’re going to networking events, then you should dress professionally and have business cards ready. Always make sure to get information you need to follow up, because that could be what it takes to get a new client.
Networking can be intimidating for those that are introverted. However, it’s entirely possible to network successfully even if it doesn’t come to you naturally. Networking is a skill that can be practiced and improved, so it’s important that you work to develop your networking ability.
Networking Options
There are a lot of different networking options and it really comes down to what you’re most comfortable with and what your strengths are. If you’re someone with great people skills, then it might be best for you to do face to face networking. If you’re someone whose strength is written communication, then email might be the best way for you to get your name out there.
Regardless of the networking method that you choose, it’s necessary that you commit to it. If you’re looking for new clients, then networking should take up a substantial amount of your day. This will ensure that you’re making as many connections as possible, which could translate to new clients down the road.
Networking can be challenging and it’s essential that you remember your goals. It can be frustrating if you’re not immediately getting the results that you want, but it’s important to remember that these things take time. If it’s been months and you’re still not seeing your desired results, then consider rethinking your networking strategy and trying something new.
Buying Leads
Many people choose to buy leads. If you really want to avoid going to networking events, then buying leads might be the way for you to go. It’s a great option for those that want to be efficient and make sure that they’re talking to the right people.
Buying a list of leads allows you to be very specific about the location and other qualifications of the leads. This can be extremely helpful and aid you when you’re reaching out. Think about where you’d like your leads to be from. Do you want them to be local? Are you wanting to use a license that you have in another state?
Networking Events
Networking events are one of the best places to find new leads. They’re a great way to meet new people and expand your current network. However, they may not come naturally to those that are introverted. This is okay, you’ll just need to develop your skills. Eventually, networking at events will become easier and it’ll come naturally to you.
When going to a networking event, it can be helpful to set goals. How will you measure success that day? Do you want to find five potential new clients? Are you just looking to introduce yourself to more people? Setting reasonable goals will allow you to adjust your expectations and make sure that you’re acting accordingly during the networking event.
Meeting people face to face is often more successful than other networking methods. Networking is all about creating a lasting impression, so if you feel comfortable, face to face networking might be the right way for you to go.
Getting Outside of Your Comfort Zone
Even if you don’t enjoy face to face networking, it may be necessary. Getting outside of your comfort zone is one of the best things that you can do for your business. It’s important that you capitalize on your strengths, but you should also seek to improve your weaknesses. Being honest with yourself about what your weaknesses are will allow you to seek out situations where you can work on them.
If there’s an area of networking that you’re not confident in, consider finding someone else in the industry that’s strong in that area. You can then learn from them and get any tips they might have. This is a great way to ask for support and make more connections within the industry.
Following Up
Following up is one of the most important parts of networking. Failing to follow up could mean potentially losing a large amount of your leads. In order to follow up, you’ll need to make sure that you get some contact information while you’re networking. Consider setting a reminder in your calendar so that you can be sure you promptly follow up and continue communication.
Following up shows that you care about the lead and you’re dedicated to continuing the business relationship. There are a few ways to follow up and which one you choose will most likely depend on the contact information that you have for your lead. If you have their email, then wait a few days and send them a message letting them know that you’d like to set up a time to talk further.
Social Media
While there are many different social media platforms that you can use for networking, LinkedIn is one of the most notable. It’s a great way to get connected with other people in the industry. You never know when having connections will be important, so you should try to get your name out there as much as possible. Meeting people through LinkedIn will give you an opportunity to learn more about the possibilities within insurance and how people you admire got to where they are.
Reach out to us today for more tips about social media and other networking opportunities!