Starting your own insurance agency can be a very lucrative business venture. However, in order to be successful, there are certain things you need to do in order to get started.
Despite the fact that you want to do this, it can still be quite daunting to get going. So, to make this process easier, you may want to look into how something like a solid insurance agency management system can be a great addition to your agency.
In this article, we will outline the five most important steps you need to take in order to make your insurance agency a success. Hopefully, you will be able to take these steps and implement them in your own plan.
Obtaining your license
The first and most important thing you need to do is to get your insurance license. In order to sell insurance, you must be licensed by the state in which you plan to do business, otherwise, you will be illegally selling insurance.
Each state has different requirements for licensing, so be sure to check with your state’s insurance department to find out what you need to do.
There are wait periods that you have to comply with, so check with the state you are based in to see how long that waiting period is.
This may be frustrating to wait; however, it can give you some more time to do other things you need to get completed for your agency.
Finding an insurance carrier
Once you have your insurance license, you need to find an insurance carrier to partner with. An insurance carrier is a company that will actually provide the insurance policies that you will sell to your clients.
You will need to find a carrier that offers the type of coverage you want to sell and that is willing to work with you.
Do your research in your local area or check online and see what would be available to your business, as well as see if they are compatible with what you want to offer your clients.
Finding your clients
The next step is to find clients. There are many ways to market your insurance agency and find potential customers. Some of the most effective methods include networking, internet marketing, and print advertising.
It is important that you put you and your business out there for people to see. Show them that you are professional and are willing to serve them with what they are looking for.
Approach people with confidence and knowledge. They will want to be assured that you can manage their needs properly.
Show them that you are using the latest software and are always going to be updating your technology as you progress, so they can see that they will be secure using you.
Building relationships
Once you have found some clients, it is important to build relationships with them. This can be done by providing excellent customer service and being available to answer any questions they may have.
Set up a website and have it handled by IT and customer service specialists who can oversee clients’ needs, as well as keep the website working efficiently for any traffic coming in.
Financial tracking
Finally, you need to keep track of your finances and make sure that your agency is profitable. This includes tracking your income and expenses, as well as making sure that you are charging enough for your services.
Software is definitely your friend here, as you can put all your incomings and outgoings on a spreadsheet and have it managed and sorted through quickly, either through automated systems or outsourcing it to professionals.
By following these five steps, you can be well on your way to starting a successful insurance agency.
Just remember all of the points above – get licensed, find a carrier, market your business, build relationships with clients, and keep track of your finances. Do all of this and you will be well on your way to success.