8 Qualities a Good Insurance Agent Should Have

For people who are contemplating becoming an insurance agent or have wondered if this career might be right for them, there are several qualities that they will need to have, at least to some degree.

Selling insurance can be a lucrative proposition, with relatively high commissions and a high degree of autonomy with flexible work schedules. However, it is not an easy job. There is a risk that there will be a high rate of client rejection, you have to live with stress and be persistent in order not to quit your job. Still, all good insurance agents share some of the skills and knowledge we’ll describe below, as well as core qualities in one way or another.

What Skills Should a Good Insurance Agent Develop?

1) Put the Customer’s Needs First

An insurance agent just looking to earn a commission, regardless of the client’s needs, probably won’t last long in business. Agents and brokers who actively listen to what their current and potential clients want will be able to earn their trust, which is the hardest part of their job.

For example, agents who are willing to offer their customers a product that pays a lower commission because it better suits their needs are much more likely to retain customers.

2) Provide Excellent Customer Service

Customers who can get in touch with their insurance agent when they need to are much more likely to remain satisfied and at ease. A timely response to phone calls or queries made through any digital channel (WhatsApp, WebChat, email or SMS) is essential.

3) Have Emotional Intelligence

This includes the ability to listen and empathize with customers on a deeper level to find out what they really want and need. A good agent is tactful and knows how to help a client with their insurance question, offering a tailor-made solution.

4) Have a High Energy Level

One of the most important traits of a good insurance agent is to be proactive and positive at all times. A tired or sad attitude will immediately rub off on clients and can discourage them from purchasing any type of insurance.

5) Be Persistent

This is perhaps the most important quality of a good insurance agent. Those who work in this field must absolutely be able to handle daily rejection throughout their careers and do so with a smile. Good insurance agents understand that every “no” only brings them closer to someone who will say “yes.”

6) Be Honest

Insurance agents who use deception to close deals rarely stay with the same company for long. A good agent knows that telling the truth up front will earn the respect and trust of customers and help build loyalty over time.

7) Know the products and services

A good insurance agent will be able to offer a wide selection of products and services that can meet any reasonable need a client may have.

8) Have Technical Knowledge

An insurance agent knows much more than just selling a policy. The agent must understand the tax and legal aspects of the products they sell and how they are designed to fit into the client’s overall financial situation.