The life insurance industry is booming nowadays; based on a report issued by LIMRA and Life Happens in 2019, adults who have life insurance in the U.S. range between 57% and 63%. This means that more than half of the adult population thinks that life insurance is a worthwhile investment. As more than 2.7 million people are making a living from this industry, you might be thinking of joining this ever-growing field. However, this job requires more than a mere license; you need to be tenacious, dedicated, and sympathetic. If your mind is set on being a life insurance agent, then you have come to the right place.
In this article, we will share some tips that will help you start your career as a life insurance agency with a bang.
1. Get Your License
First things first; you need to obtain your agent license to make sure that you get employed right away. You can fill out an application that costs $20-300 online. The price of the application depends on your state and the type of license you want to obtain. Then, you will have to go through some background checks. Again, this depends on your state; however, the insurance experts at StateRequirement.com point out that some misdemeanors or felonies can hinder the process or completely prevent you from getting your license. So, you need to check the laws and regulations of your state first. Finally, you will have to pass an exam. Passing the exam might seem like a daunting task, but it can actually be a walk in the park if you take a pre-license course to prepare yourself.
2. Find the Right Position
Job hunting is never easy, yet the life insurance industry is always looking for new agents. Try to look for insurance jobs near you; you will find hundreds of insurance companies seeking agents. Thus, you have the freedom to choose the offer that best suits your needs. Just make sure that you extensively research the history of different insurance companies to make sure you are not going to be a part of a company that scams unsuspecting clients. Another alternative can be starting your own company if you have adequate capital. Nonetheless, this option is a bit risky, especially at the beginning of your career.
3. Acquire the Required Skills
No one likes an insurance agent who is looking out for their own interests only. You need to think of your client first, as life insurance mostly saves families from financial ruin. Therefore, do not exploit the situation for your own gain. Be sympathetic, and try to offer different plans to let your client freely choose the one that fits them. Moreover, always seem energetic and excited because it is often contagious. When your clients see you excited about forging relations with them, they are more likely to buy your insurance plans.
4. Always Be Around
For clients, there is nothing more infuriating than the disappearing act most life insurance agents do after they close a deal. Put yourself in their shoes; you would not want to feel as if you were an afterthought. So, make sure you are always available when your clients need you. Be accommodating, and do not go for a holier-than-thou attitude just because you know more than them when it comes to the terms and conditions of their life insurance plan. Also, answer your clients’ phone calls to reassure them that their needs always come first.
5. Never Lie
The market is full of frauds who only care about selling insurance policies whatever the cost. Do not be one of those scheming agents; always be open and honest with your clients about the terms of their chosen policy. If you deceive them, this will only spell trouble for you and your company, as they can bring legal proceedings against you both. They will appreciate your honesty and caring demeanor. So, follow through on your promises, and do not claim to be an expert on things you do not know inside-out. In case you are unsure about some conditions, go back to your company to make sure you thoroughly understand their terms.
Being a life insurance agent is hard work; you need to be accommodating, sympathetic, and a skillful salesman to close deals and gain your clients’ trust. Yet, you will be the first one the clients thank for securing their families’ financial future. If you are passionate about helping people and advancing your career all at the same time, then this career is for you. So, what are you waiting for? Get your license today, and start making your dreams come true!