Making career choices can be difficult. If you’re not quite sure which direction you want to go in, then it can be challenging to know which steps to take. If you’re considering becoming a licensed insurance agent, then read the following blog to learn more.
Deciding to become an insurance agent
Insurance is a great industry, but it’s not for everyone. If you’re someone that’s personable, motivated and enjoys being challenged, then insurance could be the right fit for you. One of the great things about insurance is that you can begin your career at any point in your life. There isn’t a certain age when you should start your career, which can be very freeing and assuring to some.
Licensing steps
The insurance agent licensing process is fairly straightforward. It shouldn’t take you years to get your license if you work hard and dedicate yourself to the process. You’ll need to take an exam in order to be certified. In many places, you’ll need to complete a certain class before you’re allowed to take the exam.
It’s important that you research the requirements in your area, as they can vary by state. It’s important that you follow these requirements closely, so that you can get your license as soon as possible and don’t run into any problems along the way.
The exam isn’t extremely complicated. You’ll receive the results immediately following the exam. Those that don’t pass on their first try will be able to schedule another exam.
Once you pass the exam, you’ll need to fill out the licensing application your state provides. A background check may also be required, depending on the state in which you reside. It’s important that you pay attention to the requirements in your state.
Finding a mentor
Finding the right mentor is one of the best things that you can do throughout the licensing process. It’s a great way to get to know the industry better and get answers to the questions that you have. If you’re struggling to find a mentor, consider asking those in your community if they know anyone who might be available. Your mentor should be someone that you trust, as you’ll need to be able to rely on their advice and guidance.
Western Marketing often acts as a mentor, as we help insurance agents navigate the industry. We know what’s required to succeed, so we often take on a mentoring role when agents join us. If you’re interested in the services that Western Marketing offers, feel free to reach out to us. We’re here to provide you with support and the answers you need to succeed.
Getting support
Having support is important for those that are starting their businesses. Finding areas where you can get support will be important for the challenging moments that you’ll encounter. Support can come from family, colleagues and friends. Finding areas of support will be essential and help keep you motivated.
At Western Marketing, our team often offers support to agents that are starting out in the industry. We understand how difficult the first few months will be, so we’ve compiled multiple resources that new agents can use. If you’re interested in learning more about those resources, feel free to take a look at our website to get some more information.
Picking a niche
Picking a niche is one of the most important things that you’ll do as you’re starting out in the insurance industry. While you can always expand your niche later on in your career, picking a concise niche is important when you’re building your business.
You should pick a niche based on what you care about. If you’re really interested in cars, then automobile insurance might be the right choice for you. If you care strongly about healthcare, then health insurance might be the right path. Taking time to think about what matters to you is important, so that you can be sure you’re passionate about your niche. Your clients will be able to tell whether or not you’re passionate about the policies that you sell and that might determine whether or not you make the sale.
Ideally, your mentor will have the same niche that you do. If they don’t, then consider finding someone else in the industry that you can rely on as well. This will be helpful if you have a question that’s specific to your niche. It’s also helpful to make sure that you have as much support as you can get and this is a great way of doing so.
Getting clients
If you’re just starting out, then getting clients will most likely be one of the hardest parts of growing your business. Different insurance agents have different strategies and it’s important to find what works for you.
Some people prefer to network face to face. Attending networking events is a great way to do this and get your name out there. If you are choosing this method, then be sure that you’re prepared. You’ll want to dress professionally and make sure that you have business cards ready. Not doing these things could mean missing out on potential clients, so it’s essential that you put your best foot forward.
Your digital presence is another thing that can potentially bring in clients. SEO is important and will determine if people are able to find your website. Investing in local SEO is a way that you can boost your web presence and make sure potential clients are aware of your business. Appearing on podcasts is another great way to expand your audience and make sure that you’re getting your name out there. Taking whatever opportunities you can to gain traction in the digital world is important.
It’s important that you’re prepared to get clients before you actually start the process. You should already be prepared to go through the enrollment process. Not being prepared could have bad results if you end up getting your first client earlier than expected.
Still have questions? We can help! Reach out to Western Marketing today for more information.